Netanyahu’s border proposal threatens Gaza ceasefire talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s intensified tensions over Gaza ceasefire negotiations by asserting that Israel must maintain open-ended military control over Gaza’s southern border with Egypt, known as the Philadelphi Corridor.

This hardline position has sparked criticism both domestically and internationally, threatening to derail ongoing ceasefire talks aimed at ending the violence.

Speaking to foreign journalists on Wednesday, Netanyahu defended his stance: “Gaza must be demilitarised, and this can only happen if the Philadelphi Corridor remains under firm control,” he said, underscoring his belief that Israeli military presence in the area is crucial to prevent the flow of weapons into Gaza. However, his insistence on keeping Israeli troops stationed along the border has been met with resistance from members of Israel’s own military and security establishment, many of whom argue that permanent troop deployment in Gaza is unnecessary.

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A former Israeli negotiator accused Netanyahu of using the corridor issue as a tactic to delay progress. He described Netanyahu’s insistence on Israeli control of the Philadelphi Corridor as a “ploy,” suggesting that a ceasefire deal with Hamas could be reached quickly if the prime minister were willing to compromise on this contentious issue.

Netanyahu’s rigid stance on the Philadelphi Corridor may complicate efforts to reach a ceasefire, raising concerns about prolonging the conflict and further destabilizing the region.