National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to persist with military action in Lebanon despite the ceasefire that took effect Wednesday. Speaking at a cornerstone-laying ceremony for a new police station in Sderot, Ben Gvir argued that Hezbollah’s repeated ceasefire violations justify continued action.

He emphasized Israel’s “historic opportunity” to achieve lasting peace by defeating Hamas, restoring deterrence, and reoccupying Gaza. Ben Gvir also advocated for encouraging the voluntary emigration of Israel’s enemies, a point he believes would bring long-term stability to the south.

Ben Gvir’s remarks follow comments from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who recently suggested that Israel could reduce Gaza’s population by half within two years by promoting emigration. These statements highlight the ongoing debate within Israel’s leadership regarding the future of Gaza and the broader regional conflict.

Ben Gvir, a vocal advocate for tougher measures, underscored the urgency of decisive action, viewing the current moment as a critical opportunity for Israel’s security and peace efforts.