Netanyahu insists on Gaza border control, complicating cease-fire
Israeli PM insists on border control, complicates cease-fire negotiations
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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.”
![Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gestures during a press conference at the Government Press office in Jerusalem, Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. (Abir Sultan/Pool via AP).](https://thethaiger.com/world/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Israel_Palestinians_24248641729344-300x200.jpg)
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.”
![Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands before a map during a press conference at the Government Press office in Jerusalem, Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. (Abir Sultan/Pool via AP).](https://thethaiger.com/world/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Israel_Palestinians_24248649479195-300x200.jpg)
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.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- Al Jazeera reports that thousands of Palestinians have been forced to leave their homes at gunpoint in Jenin, while Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza have resulted in the deaths of at least 18 Palestinians, with Hamas accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of obstructing a ceasefire agreement. (read more)
- Netanyahu Says Israel Will Not Leave Gaza Border Corridor Until It Is Secure. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will only agree to a lasting ceasefire in Gaza if it ensures the Philadelphi corridor remains under Israeli control to prevent Hamas from rearming. He argued that international pressures would render any return to the area nearly impossible. (read more)
- Swissinfo.ch reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists Israel will not withdraw from the Gaza border corridor until it is secure, citing the discovery of numerous tunnels used by Hamas for smuggling weapons. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why does Netanyahu want to maintain control over Gaza’s border with Egypt?
To prevent Hamas from rearming by smuggling weapons into Gaza.
What is the Philadelphi corridor?
A narrow strip of land along Gaza’s border with Egypt, seized by Israeli troops in May.
What are Hamas and Egypt demanding regarding the Philadelphi corridor?
Hamas demands full Israeli withdrawal; Egypt demands a concrete timeline for Israeli troops to leave.
How has the public in Israel reacted to Netanyahu’s stance on the border control issue?
Hundreds of thousands have protested, calling for a deal to bring hostages home.
What condition did Netanyahu set for withdrawing from the Philadelphi corridor?
An alternative force must be able to prevent smuggling and rearming of Hamas.