Israel has refused to withdraw its forces from the Gaza-Egypt border, despite ongoing ceasefire talks with Hamas. This decision may violate terms of the agreement and complicate negotiations. As regional tensions rise, the future of the ceasefire and ongoing military operations in the West Bank remain uncertain.
Israel has announced that it will not withdraw its military forces from the Gaza-Egypt border, a move considered necessary for the second phase of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. An Israeli source stated, “We will not exit the Philadelphi Corridor… We will not allow Hamas murderers to roam again on our borders.” This statement comes just days before the current hostage-ceasefire agreement is set to expire and after Hamas released the last hostages required under the initial phase.
Hamas responded by asserting that Israel’s refusal to withdraw constitutes a breach of the ceasefire. The group warned that this could be seen as an attempt to derail the agreement altogether. Negotiations aimed at extending the ceasefire into a second phase began three weeks ago but have yet to conclude amid ongoing regional tensions, highlighted by a recent car-ramming attack that injured nine in central Israel.
In parallel, Israel has intensified military operations in the West Bank, which has reportedly resulted in numerous casualties and the displacement of many residents since the ceasefire began. As negotiations continue in Cairo, it remains unclear if the discussions will include plans for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces or merely an extension of the existing truce.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is sending a negotiation team to Cairo, but indications suggest that discussions may not reach the highest levels of leadership. The first phase of the ceasefire, where hostages were exchanged, is set to expire soon, and Netanyahu may be aiming to prolong this phase to secure additional hostages without needing to withdraw from Gaza.
Former military chief Benny Gantz accused Netanyahu of prioritizing political interests over Israel’s national security by opting for a gradual hostage release instead of a comprehensive deal. Hamas officials indicated that Israel had agreed to begin withdrawing from the corridor, which is vital for border security, while Hamas reiterated its willingness to continue negotiations for the subsequent phase of the ceasefire.
In summary, Israel’s decision to maintain its military presence along the Gaza-Egypt border contradicts the requirements of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. While both parties continue talks in Cairo, regional tensions persist, and different interests may hinder progress towards a stable resolution. The upcoming expiration of the current ceasefire phase adds urgency to these negotiations.
Original Source: krdo.com
