Netanyahu Fears Coalition Collapse Amid Reports of Progress in Prisoner Swap Negotiations

Occupied Palestine (Quds News Network)- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is working to ensure that ongoing prisoner swap negotiations do not destabilize his coalition government. According to Maariv, Netanyahu is seeking the support of key allies in his government, fearing the deal could lead to its collapse.
Netanyahu plans to hold one-on-one meetings with cabinet members, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, as progress is reportedly being made in the negotiations. Israel’s public broadcaster, KAN, reported that Netanyahu also directed Mossad chief David Barnea, Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, his political adviser, and a senior military representative to travel to Doha, Qatar, to join the talks.
Defense Minister and top security and military officials have also been involved in the discussions, reflecting the high stakes surrounding the potential deal.
The proposed prisoner exchange has been attacked by some members of Netanyahu’s government. Settlement Minister Orit Strock labeled the deal “a clear victory for terrorism,” warning that it could endanger Israeli soldiers’ lives. She also claimed the efforts to weaken Hamas in Gaza would be undone if the deal proceeds.
Her remarks were met with backlash from families of Israeli prisoners. The father of an Israeli soldier prisoner condemned her comments, accusing her of using the issue for political gain. He also criticized the ongoing genocide in Gaza, saying it only deepens the suffering of detainees and soldiers.
As negotiations continue, the administration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump continues to blame Hamas for the failure to reach a prisoner exchange deal. Trump’s vice president-elect, stated that Trump had made it clear Hamas would face severe consequences if the deal is not finalized before his inauguration on January 20.
National Security Advisor-designate Mike Waltz echoed this sentiment, saying conditions for Hamas would worsen significantly after Trump takes office.
Current National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan revealed that a potential agreement involving a ceasefire in Gaza is close.
Sullivan noted that US President Joe Biden’s Middle East envoy has been in Doha for over a week, working to finalize the deal before Trump assumes office.