Tel Aviv: Former Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has openly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labeling the recent Gaza ceasefire agreement as a 'historic mistake.' Ben-Gvir's comments were made during an interview with local radio station 103FM, where he expressed his belief that Netanyahu's decision undermines Israel's military efforts in Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ben-Gvir, who leads the far-right Otzma Yehudit Party, emphasized that the continuation of the ceasefire agreement is detrimental to Israel's objectives. He argued, "The deal prevents Israel from achieving a total victory, and every passing day proves that my opposition to the agreement was justified."

Ben-Gvir resigned from Netanyahu's government last month due to his opposition to the ceasefire deal. He insists that the agreement has enabled Hamas fighters to regain power and control in Gaza. He stated, "The amount of aid we give them...it enables them to rule. Hamas regained control (in the Gaza Strip) because of this reckless deal."

Furthermore, Ben-Gvir criticized far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, disputing his claim that Israel had dismantled Hamas. Ben-Gvir remarked, "I heard him say that we have taken Hamas apart, but unfortunately, the reality on the ground says otherwise."

The ceasefire agreement, which took effect in Gaza on January 19, brought an end to Israel's military operations that had resulted in the deaths of more than 48,200 Palestinians, most of whom were women and children. The conflict left the region in devastation.

In a related legal development, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.