( Source- nbcnews.com )
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his position that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the Philadelphi Corridor, a strategically significant stretch of land along Gaza’s border with Egypt. During a briefing Israeli troops with foreign media in Jerusalem, Netanyahu emphasized the need for Israel’s military presence in this buffer zone, arguing that it is crucial to prevent weapons smuggling and secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Although he left the door slightly open to consider alternatives in a future ceasefire agreement, Netanyahu expressed skepticism about the feasibility of such options. He stressed that no plan currently exists that could guarantee the security of the region as effectively as a military presence, saying, “If someone could show, not on paper, not in words, but on the ground, day after day, week after week, month after month, that they can actually prevent the recurrence of what happened there before, we’re open to considering it.”
Maintaining a “Red Line” for Security from Israeli troops
Netanyahu’s comments underscore his stance that keeping Israeli troops in the Philadelphi Corridor is a “red line” for Israel’s security, a point he has consistently made in discussions about any potential ceasefire with Hamas. He firmly dismissed the idea of making further concessions, particularly in light of recent hostage killings by Hamas, calling it “illogical,” “immoral,” and “insane.”
“People said: this will kill the deal,” he said. “And I say: such a deal will kill us.”
His insistence on maintaining a military presence in the corridor has reportedly created tensions with his own security chiefs, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Leaks to Israeli media suggest heated debates, with Netanyahu being accused of not wanting a deal at all. Meanwhile, his security advisors have proposed alternative solutions, including technological surveillance systems or the deployment of allied forces to monitor the border. These alternatives have yet to gain traction, as Netanyahu remains firm in his belief that military control is essential to protect Israel from further attacks.
International Pressure and Ceasefire Talks
Amid growing international pressure, including from U.S. President Joe Biden, Israel is navigating complex ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. The two parties have yet to agree on even the initial phase of a three-step peace plan. While reports suggest that Mossad head David Barnea, Israel’s chief negotiator, has signaled a willingness to consider withdrawing Israeli troops at a later stage in the process, significant issues remain unresolved.
Netanyahu, however, continues to place the blame on Hamas for stalling the ceasefire talks, stating that it is their unwillingness to make meaningful concessions that is blocking progress. He further reiterated that Israel’s priority is to dismantle Hamas leadership, with growing speculation that his real goal is to eliminate Yahya Sinwar, the group’s leader, before concluding any ceasefire.
As the negotiations drag on, Netanyahu’s hardline stance is increasingly seen by some as a tactic to buy time rather than a genuine effort to secure peace. Yet, he insists that his primary objective is safeguarding Israel’s long-term security, even if it means enduring intense international scrutiny and pressure.
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