Netanyahu’s Stance on Gaza Border Hinders Ceasefire Negotiations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s insistence on retaining control over the Philadelphi Corridor—a key border area between Gaza and Egypt—has emerged as a significant obstacle in ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.
Netanyahu’s position is centered on maintaining military oversight in this strategic zone, which Israel seized in May.
Netanyahu argues that control over the corridor is essential to prevent weapon smuggling into Gaza and ensure that the region does not remain a conduit for rearming Hamas.
“Gaza must be demilitarized, and this can only happen if the Philadelphi Corridor remains under firm control,” Netanyahu stated in a press conference.
He indicated that Israel would only consider withdrawing from the area if an effective alternative to prevent smuggling could be demonstrated.
Hamas has sharply criticized Netanyahu’s stance, accusing him of using the corridor to sabotage ceasefire efforts and prolong the conflict. In a statement, Hamas urged international pressure on Israel to adhere to previously agreed ceasefire terms and accused Netanyahu of manipulating the negotiations to extend the aggression.
The Philadelphi Corridor’s status has become a central issue in the negotiations, complicating efforts to secure a ceasefire. Despite mounting domestic and international pressure, including criticism from within Israel’s own defense establishment, Netanyahu has maintained that the corridor is a critical component of Israel’s security strategy.
Egypt, the US, and Qatar are involved in mediating the ceasefire talks, with Egypt also demanding a clear timeline for Israel’s potential withdrawal from the corridor. Critics within Israel, including some military and security officials, argue that alternative measures, such as technological monitoring or allied forces, could effectively manage the corridor without requiring a permanent Israeli military presence.
Al Jazeera, BBC, and the Times of Israel contributed to this report.
