The United States has provided Israel with a formal written assurance allowing a return to military action in the Gaza Strip if the ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Hamas fail, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich revealed on Tuesday.
During a meeting of his Religious Zionism Party in the Knesset, Smotrich explained that U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, communicated this guarantee to Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. According to Smotrich, the assurance permits Israel to resume its war against Hamas on the 43rd day of the agreement if talks falter during the initial 42-day phase.
American Support for Israeli Objectives
The U.S. guarantee was reportedly delivered through official communications and discussions between Netanyahu, President Trump, and other American government representatives. Smotrich emphasized, “These two things together create an American guarantee allowing us to return to war.”
Smotrich also outlined the conditions required for the ceasefire’s second stage to succeed, stating, “Our condition is that there is no Hamas.” He reiterated Israel’s preference to avoid conflict if Hamas agrees to the terms but maintained that failure to meet these conditions would lead to renewed hostilities.
Religious Zionism Party’s Stance
While the Religious Zionism Party voted against the recent hostage deal with Hamas—citing the release of thousands of prisoners and Israel’s withdrawal from strategic positions as major concerns—it has remained in Netanyahu’s coalition to ensure the war continues until “complete victory” is achieved.
Smotrich highlighted that the party’s decision to stay in the coalition was contingent upon Netanyahu’s commitment to dismantle Hamas infrastructure and secure the release of all hostages through military means.
U.S. and Global Reactions
U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, who played a significant role in brokering the deal, declined to confirm the existence of formal guarantees in a recent interview. “I don’t want to discuss promises that were made; the agreement speaks for itself,” Witkoff told Israel’s Channel 12 News.
President Trump, addressing reporters on Monday, expressed skepticism about the ceasefire’s longevity. “It’s not our war. It is their war. I am not confident. But I think they’re very weakened on the other side,” he remarked during a White House briefing.
Hostage Releases and Humanitarian Implications
As part of the initial phase of the U.S.- and Qatar-brokered agreement, three Israeli women who had been held captive since October 7, 2023, were released after 471 days in Gaza. The first phase will see the release of 30 hostages out of the 94 individuals still detained.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the political complexities surrounding the ceasefire have drawn significant international attention. Trump hinted at the necessity of a new governance model for Gaza, stating, “You certainly can’t have the people that were there,” referencing Hamas leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary objective of Israel’s conditions in the ceasefire talks?
Israel insists on dismantling Hamas as a terrorist organization and ensuring its complete disarmament.
What role has the U.S. played in the ceasefire agreement?
The U.S., along with Qatar, has brokered the agreement and provided Israel with guarantees to resume military action if talks fail.
How long is the first phase of the ceasefire agreement?
The first phase spans 42 days, with the potential for resuming war on the 43rd day if negotiations do not progress.
What are the implications of the hostage deal?
The deal involves releasing hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Israel withdrawing from specific strategic positions and releasing prisoners.
Conclusion
The ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains fragile, with American guarantees underpinning Israel’s right to resume military operations if negotiations collapse. The political and humanitarian stakes are immense, as both sides navigate a volatile landscape shaped by global diplomacy and deep-rooted tensions.