What it is about
In a bid to gauge internal support, Likud MKs have been surveyed about their stance on a proposed ceasefire-hostage release deal. This follow-up comes after the Prime Minister’s Office published Israel’s strict red lines for negotiating a hostage deal.
Why it matters
The internal survey aims to clarify the party’s position on a significant, diplomatically sensitive issue, impacting not only Israel’s international stance but also its internal political dynamics and national security strategy.
Deal Dynamics
According to the survey, the proposed deal involves the release of 33 hostages—including women, the elderly, and sick—in the first phase. The second phase aims at releasing the remaining living hostages, contingent on Israel freeing hundreds of prisoners, including some terrorists with blood on their hands. A third phase addresses the retrieval of held captive bodies. MKs have been asked to state their support or opposition to such terms.
Israel’s Red Lines
The proposal emerged after the Prime Minister’s Office outlined Israel’s non-negotiables in any potential agreement. These red lines include ensuring Israel’s ability to resume military efforts until full strategic goals are achieved, preventing arms smuggling to Hamas via the Gaza-Egypt border, and eliminating the possibility of returning armed terrorists to Northern Gaza, all while aiming to retrieve the highest number of live hostages.
Political Landscape
The Likud party has members with divergent views on the Biden-outlined deal approved by the UN Security Council. Notable opponents like Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli have dismissed the deal as insufficient. Recent surveys indicate a nearly even split in public opinion, with 47% supporting the presented deal and 39% advocating for continued military action to secure hostages.
Those Likely to Support vs. Oppose
Prominent dissenters include Tali Gottlieb, Dan Illouz, Ariel Kellner, and Hanoch Milwidsky, reflecting the complexity and contestation within the party.
This story was first published on jpost.com.