Full Breakdown
Israel Forms Ministerial Team for Gaza Ceasefire Implementation
11/21/2025, 7:54:58 PM
Overview of the New Ministerial Team
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed a specialized cabinet team to oversee the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas. This decision was made during a recent meeting of the political-security cabinet, which was marked by internal disagreements, particularly from Energy Minister Eli Cohen, who expressed dissatisfaction over his exclusion from the team. The newly formed team includes key figures such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, Justice Minister Yariv Levin, and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. The team is expected to commence its work shortly.
Background of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire agreement, which concluded a two-year U.S.-backed Israeli military campaign in Gaza that began on October 8, 2023, has been a pivotal development in the region. This campaign reportedly resulted in over 69,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 170,000 injuries, predominantly affecting women and children. The second phase of the ceasefire is part of a broader strategy proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at stabilizing the region.
Composition of the Ministerial Team
The ministerial team tasked with implementing the second phase of the ceasefire agreement includes:
- Benjamin Netanyahu (Prime Minister)
- Itamar Ben Gvir (National Security Minister)
- Bezalel Smotrich (Finance Minister)
- Yariv Levin (Justice Minister)
- Gideon Sa'ar (Foreign Minister)
This team is expected to play a crucial role in negotiating and executing the terms of the ceasefire, although specific measures to be undertaken in this phase have not been detailed publicly.
Official Statements & Responses
The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reported on the cabinet's decision to form this team, highlighting the urgency of implementing the ceasefire terms. Shosh Bedrosian, spokesperson for Netanyahu, indicated that the second phase will also involve establishing an international stabilization force, although further details remain unclear.
Criticism & Opposition
The decision to exclude Energy Minister Eli Cohen from the ministerial team has drawn criticism, suggesting potential rifts within the cabinet regarding the management of the ceasefire process. Cohen's public dissent raises questions about the unity and effectiveness of the cabinet in executing the ceasefire agreement.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the formation of the ministerial team has been confirmed by multiple sources, there is a lack of clarity regarding the specific actions and measures that will be implemented in the second phase of the ceasefire. Additionally, the absence of detailed information about the international stabilization force further complicates understanding the full scope of the agreement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Sources in the cabinet said the new team is expected to begin working in the coming days.” — Source from the cabinet
This newly formed team represents a significant step in the ongoing efforts to stabilize Gaza following a prolonged period of conflict, with the international community closely monitoring the developments.
