Netanyahu insists on Gaza border control, complicating cease-fire

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Wednesday that Israel must maintain indefinite control over Gaza’s border with Egypt. This stance could potentially hinder cease-fire negotiations. The United States is currently crafting a new proposal for a cease-fire and the release of hostages, aiming to end the nearly 11-month-long conflict.

The issue of Israeli control over the Philadelphi corridor, a narrow land strip along Gaza’s border with Egypt seized by Israeli troops in May, remains a significant barrier in the discussions. Hamas insists on a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza as part of a multi-phase truce.

Egypt, acting as a mediator alongside the U.S. and Qatar, has also demanded a specific timeline for Israeli troop withdrawal from the Philadelphi corridor. On Wednesday, the United Arab Emirates, which formalised relations with Israel in the 2020 Abraham Accords, criticised Israel’s stance.

Netanyahu, addressing foreign journalists, reiterated that Israel must keep control of the border to prevent Hamas from rearming through weapon smuggling. He argued that maintaining control is crucial to prevent another attack similar to Hamas’ assault on Israel on October 7.

“Gaza must be demilitarised, and this can only happen if the Philadelphi corridor remains under firm control,” he stated, noting that Israeli troops had discovered numerous tunnels under the border. He said Israel would only consider withdrawal if an effective alternative force could be established to police the area.

“Show us anyone who can genuinely prevent the recurrence of smuggling,” he added. “Until that happens, we’re there.”

Families of remaining hostages have increased pressure on Netanyahu to agree to a deal after Hamas killed six hostages last week during what appeared to be a rescue attempt by Israeli troops. Publicly, hostage families have accused Netanyahu of hindering a deal and risking their loved ones’ lives to maintain control over the border strip. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis have recently protested, urging for a deal and stressing the urgency to bring hostages home alive.

Netanyahu defended his position, stating it was essential to ensure Hamas does not threaten Israel again. “I understand the torment of families,” he said. “But leaders must exercise judgment, not just share emotions.”

When asked for a timeline on ending the war, Netanyahu declined to provide one. “How long can we do this? As long as it takes to achieve victory. I believe we’re getting closer,” he remarked.

Netanyahu maintained that holding the border would also pressure Hamas to release hostages. He incorrectly claimed that the invasion of Rafah in May led to Hamas’ first hostage release, which actually occurred months earlier in November under a weeklong ceasefire deal. He asserted that the release was “the result of our invasion, the military pressure we put on them.”