Tensions in the Middle East. Israeli minister vows to oust Netanyahu if Rafah is not invaded

Smotrich’s warning comes as efforts are underway in Egypt to announce a new ceasefire and release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

“Accepting the Egyptian deal is a humiliating capitulation and gives the Nazis victory after hundreds of heroic soldiers have died in battle,” Smotrich, who has repeatedly called Hamas “Nazis,” said in a video posted on social media.

According to him, a word of approval for the deal would mean “a death sentence for the hostages and a direct existential threat to the State of Israel.”

Mr. Smotrich testified that if Mr. Netanyahu surrendered and withdrew his orders to advance to the Rafah, his government “would no longer have the right to exist.” The operation is “necessary” to destroy Hamas, restore security along the Israel-Gaza border and return the hostages, he stressed.

Netanyahu’s government is trying to reach a last-minute deal with Hamas on a ceasefire and the release of hostages before sending troops to the Rafah. A Hamas delegation is expected in Cairo on Monday to discuss the details.