Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Sets Condition for Permanent Ceasefire

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has laid down a condition for a permanent ceasefire, stating that Israel will not withdraw from the Gaza border corridor until the area between Gaza and Egypt is free from being used by the Islamist group Hamas.

“Until that happens, we’re there,” Netanyahu declared during a news conference in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that Gaza does not become a route for smuggling weapons and supplies to Hamas.

Netanyahu stressed the need for guarantees that Gaza would be able to prevent a recurrence of past incidents, like the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7. He insisted that there must be tangible proof of the ability to prevent such incidents, not just promises on paper or in words.

As the US works on a new ceasefire proposal and hostage release plan to end the 11-month-long conflict, Netanyahu rejected the idea of withdrawing from the Philadelphi corridor, a vital area on the southern border of Gaza that has been a major obstacle in reaching a peace agreement.

The corridor, where Israeli forces have discovered tunnels used by Hamas for weapons smuggling, remains under Israeli control according to Netanyahu, who is determined to secure the release of Israeli hostages and halt the fighting in Gaza.

Despite efforts to initiate negotiations, Hamas has rejected all elements of a ceasefire proposal for Gaza, leaving the possibility of a breakthrough uncertain. Netanyahu expressed his desire to see the hostages released but acknowledged the challenges in reaching an agreement with Hamas.

Netanyahu’s firm stance on maintaining control of the border corridor underscores Israel’s commitment to security and preventing terrorist activities in the region. As diplomatic efforts continue, the path to a lasting peace remains uncertain, with both sides facing significant challenges in finding common ground.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/hl-will-not-leave-gaza-border-until-netanyahu-sets-conditions-for-permanent-ceasefire/articleshow/113077998.cms