Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has reaffirmed that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the Philadelphi Corridor, a crucial strip of land along Gaza’s southern border with Egypt. Speaking to foreign media in Jerusalem, Netanyahu emphasized that Israeli troops must maintain control of the border to prevent weapons smuggling and the possibility of Israeli hostages being taken across the border.
While he expressed openness to considering alternatives as part of a future ceasefire deal, Netanyahu made it clear he does not foresee the removal of Israeli forces. He stressed that the situation would have to be consistently stable on the ground before any changes could be considered, stating, “We are there until that happens.”
Netanyahu’s position has drawn criticism from Hamas, which accused him of trying to derail ceasefire efforts. In a statement, Hamas urged for more pressure on Israel, accusing Netanyahu of obstructing peace negotiations.
In his speech, Netanyahu highlighted that any ceasefire would have to ensure the Philadelphi Corridor remains secure, stressing that previous efforts had failed to prevent weapons smuggling in the region. He described Israeli military presence in the area as a “red line,” calling further concessions after recent killings of Israeli hostages by Hamas “illogical, immoral, and insane.”
Though Netanyahu’s security chiefs, including his defense minister, have suggested alternative solutions such as technological monitoring or allied forces, Netanyahu reportedly clashed with them during meetings. Leaks to Israeli media suggest disagreements, with some accusing the prime minister of delaying negotiations in an effort to find and eliminate Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
Netanyahu insists that his priority is Israel’s security, amid mounting international pressure, and he places the blame on Hamas for obstructing any deal. Meanwhile, negotiations on a permanent ceasefire remain stalled, with unresolved issues even as the U.S. pushes a three-step plan aimed at ending the conflict.
