- Netanyahu expresses no intention of abandoning the Philadelphia corridor.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is adamant about keeping authority over the Philadelphi Corridor, a roughly 14-kilometer long region bordering the Gaza Strip and Egypt. At a press conference, he asserted, "We won't give up the Philadelphi Corridor." He considers it vital for Israel's security and political interests.
The Israeli military presence in this region could potentially hinder a ceasefire agreement and the liberation of hostages held by the Islamist group Hamas. Both Egypt and Hamas insist on Israel's withdrawal from the region.
Netanyahu also threatened that Hamas would face severe consequences for the deaths of six Israeli hostages whose bodies were discovered in an underground tunnel in southern Gaza. Media reports suggest that the Israeli Health Ministry reported the hostages were murdered at point-blank range, approximately 48 to 72 hours before the autopsy.
"Justice will not be denied for this massacre," Netanyahu declared. He offered his sympathies to the families of the deceased, "that we failed to bring them back alive."
Previously, thousands of Israelis had protested, calling for an agreement leading to the hostages' release. An Israeli media outlet quoted a man, whose brother is still being held in Gaza, saying, "Your actions lead to their demise."
The ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas might stall due to Israel's persistent control over the Philadelphi Corridor, fueling the conflict.Recognizing the strategic importance of the corridor, Hamas and Egypt strongly urge Israel to withdraw, arguing that it contributes to the ongoing tension.
