Israel has announced it will not withdraw forces from the Gaza-Egypt border as part of a potential ceasefire extension with Hamas. This decision comes shortly before the expiration of the first phase of a hostage-ceasefire agreement, and negotiations for a second phase appear stalled. Prime Minister Netanyahu seeks to extend the initial ceasefire and obtain more hostages without withdrawing from Gaza.
In the wake of the impending expiration of a ceasefire, Israeli officials have stated that they will not withdraw their troops from the Gaza-Egypt border, which is known as the Philadelphi Corridor. An Israeli source indicated to CNN, “We will not exit the Philadelphi Corridor,” emphasizing the nation’s security in terms of preventing Hamas operatives from reconsolidating and smuggling weapons.
This announcement arrives shortly before the current hostages’ ceasefire agreement is set to end. Hamas recently completed the transfer of all final hostages stipulated by the first phase of the agreement. Though negotiations for a potential second phase were anticipated to commence weeks ago, it remains unclear whether discussions have taken place.
The first phase of the ceasefire has facilitated the release of hostages held by Hamas, as well as numerous Palestinian detainees held by Israel. The Israeli military has maintained control over the corridor adjacent to the Egyptian border since May, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has labeled essential for Israel’s national security.
For a second phase to take effect, Israel would have to withdraw all military forces from Gaza, with Hamas obliged to release any surviving hostages. Following the transfer of four deceased hostages, Hamas reiterated its willingness to commence negotiations for the second phase. “Any attempts by Netanyahu and his government to backtrack on the agreement and obstruct it will only lead to more suffering for the prisoners and their families,” Hamas stated.
Discussions regarding security measures are scheduled for Thursday, wherein Prime Minister Netanyahu will decide on the possibility of sending a delegation to continue with negotiations for the second stage. However, Netanyahu reportedly favors extending the first phase of the ceasefire to secure additional hostage releases without a military withdrawal from Gaza. An Israeli source revealed the government’s intention to prolong the ceasefire phase as much as possible in pursuit of this objective.
In conclusion, Israel has firmly stated its position regarding military presence along the Gaza-Egypt border despite the impending ceasefire expiration. The potential for further negotiations with Hamas remains uncertain, particularly with the critical issues of troop withdrawal and hostage exchanges at the forefront. As tensions persist, both parties grapple with the complexities of reaching a mutually agreeable resolution.
Original Source: keyt.com
