Israel gains control over a smuggling route.
There's been a neutral zone strewn between Gaza and Egypt for some time now. Per Israel's reports, this corridor serves as an entryway for smugglers, prompting them to take it over. Such a move may heighten tension with Egypt.
The Israeli army's recent takeover of a significant path alongside the border between Gaza and Egypt has been announced, according to Israel's own statements. Dubbed the Philadelphi Corridor, this trek is full of contraband tunnels.
The skinny tract spans about 100 meters wide in certain stretches and extends for approximately 14 kilometers, including the Rafah border crossing with Egypt. The commandeering of this expanse suggests Israel has redoubled its efforts in the southern Gaza Strip. Despite these sweeping claims, there have been appeals for moderation after recent innocent civilian casualties.
With about 82 tunnel entrances said to be in the vicinity, the Israeli army has also found a host of Hamas rocket launchers within the Philadelphi Corridor - though these assertions are yet to be corroborated.
This zone is part of a more extensive demilitarized belt lining both the Israeli-Egyptian border. In accordance with a peace deal, the agreement dictates that only a select number of troops or frontier guards can be stationed on each side in the area. Once upon a time, Israeli troops governed the Gaza Strip, but they later left in 2005. The seizing of the Philadelphi Corridor could give Egypt further reason for grievances, as they have already expressed discontent over Israel's incursions. Israeli soldiers had previously snagged control of the Rafah border crossing - the only link between Gaza and Egypt from the Palestinian side.
Early last May, Israeli troops infiltrated sectors of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. They snatched up the Rafah border crossing, the one and only gateway to Egypt for the Palestinians. Israel's moves in Rafah have faced considerable international backlash, as many Palestinians fleeing from conflict have found refuge there.
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- The actions of Israel in controlling the Philadelphi Corridor have led to increased tension with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, potentially escalating the ongoing Israel-Gaza Strip war.
- In response to Israel's control of the Rafah border crossing in the Gaza Strip, Egypt has voiced concerns and may be considering diplomatic actions or even joining forces with Hamas in their conflicts against Israel.
- The recurring Wars and conflicts between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip have raised global concerns, with the UN urging Israel to observe a ceasefire and minimize civilian casualties.
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