Israel has declared it will not withdraw from the Gaza-Egypt border, despite ongoing ceasefire talks with Hamas. The Israeli position is that maintaining control is essential for security. Meanwhile, Hamas views this refusal as a violation of the ceasefire agreement, complicating further negotiations for a second phase of the truce.
Israel has announced that it will not withdraw its forces from the Gaza-Egypt border, despite the anticipated second phase of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. An Israeli source reaffirmed that Israel will maintain control of the Philadelphi Corridor, emphasizing concerns about potential threats from Hamas if they were to regain access to the border area. This statement comes just before the first phase of the hostage-ceasefire agreement is set to expire, which involved the release of hostages by Hamas and Palestinian detainees by Israel.
Following the recent completion of hostages transfer under the first phase of the agreement, Hamas expressed that Israel’s refusal to withdraw from the border would constitute a breach of the ceasefire. Talks aimed at extending the ceasefire into a second phase have reportedly faced delays, leading to concerns over the ongoing negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dispatched a negotiation team to Cairo to continue discussions with Hamas, although it remains uncertain if these discussions will prioritize a second phase involving the full withdrawal of Israeli forces. Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer’s absence from the talks indicates that high-level discussions may not take place.
Benny Gantz, a political figure and former military chief, criticized Netanyahu for prioritizing political interests over the swift recovery of hostages. Gantz advocates for a more decisive approach to the hostage situation, contrasting with the government’s strategy of prolonging the ceasefire without withdrawing from Gaza.
As the expiration date for the first phase approaches, Hamas has reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire terms, including the withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor, and warned that any attempts to obstruct the agreement would result in further suffering for hostages and their families. The ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt in these negotiations remain under scrutiny.
The situation surrounding the ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remains precarious, as Israel has stated it will not withdraw its forces from the Gaza-Egypt border. This decision contradicts the expectations of a second phase in the hostage-ceasefire agreement. Ongoing discussions have been complicated by political interests and differing priorities regarding the management of hostages. As negotiations continue, the urgency for a resolution is increasingly critical for all parties involved.
Original Source: www.erienewsnow.com
