Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israeli military forces must maintain control over Gaza’s southern border area with Egypt, known as the Philadelphi Corridor. This area, which Israeli forces took control of in May, is now a major point of contention in ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Netanyahu’s firm stance on the corridor is raising concerns that it could derail efforts to end the conflict, as international pressure mounts and domestic protests demand a resolution.
Ceasefire Talks Under Pressure
Benjamin Netanyahu’s position on the Philadelphi Corridor has become a significant obstacle in the quest for a ceasefire. The corridor’s control is crucial for Netanyahu, who argues that it is necessary to prevent weapons smuggling into Gaza. He insists that Israel will only consider withdrawing if an effective plan to secure the area is presented. “Bring me anyone who can actually prevent smuggling,” Netanyahu said. He has not provided a timeline for ending the war, stating that Israel will continue its operations “as long as it takes to achieve victory.”
Domestic And International Criticism
Netanyahu’s decision to maintain control of the corridor has drawn sharp criticism from within Israel. Some military and security officials believe that a permanent Israeli presence in Gaza is unnecessary and that targeted raids could be more effective in preventing arms smuggling. Egypt, along with the US and Qatar, is mediating the ceasefire talks and has demanded a clear timeline for Israel’s withdrawal from the corridor. The United Arab Emirates, which normalized relations with Israel through the 2020 Abraham Accords, has also expressed disapproval of Israel’s stance.
Hamas Accuses Netanyahu Of Stalling Ceasefire Talks
In response to Netanyahu’s position, Hamas has accused him of deliberately stalling the ceasefire talks. Hamas claims that Netanyahu’s refusal to withdraw from the Philadelphi Corridor is an attempt to prolong the conflict. The group has called for pressure to be applied to Israel to adhere to earlier agreements. Hamas also criticized Netanyahu for incorrectly stating that a recent ground invasion led to the release of Israeli captives. The actual release occurred months earlier, during a ceasefire deal in November. Moreover, the Israel-Hamas war has been ongoing for 11 months, as efforts are being made internationally to achieve a permanent ceasefire, Benjamin Netanyahu’s firm stance on his conditions concerning the Gaza border continues to resist the end to the war.