Gaza City – A streamlined ministerial team has been formed by the Israeli government to manage the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The team comprises Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
The selection of these ministers has raised concerns, given their widely known far-right ideologies and staunch opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Smotrich has previously advocated for the re-occupation of Gaza and the expansion of Israeli settlements within the territory. Ben-Gvir, for his part, has publicly denied the existence of the Palestinian people and voiced strong opposition to the ceasefire agreement itself.
The composition of this team has triggered questions regarding the practical implementation of the agreement’s second phase. This phase is intended to include a permanent cessation of hostilities, the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and the commencement of reconstruction efforts. These concerns are further amplified by Prime Minister Netanyahu’s recent statements, indicating that the agreement will be enforced with an iron fist.
DZWatch will continue to monitor developments in Gaza and provide updates as the situation evolves.
Published: 22/11/2025
