Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will not vacate the Gaza border corridor until guarantees are secured to prevent it from being used by Hamas for smuggling weapons. During a news conference in Jerusalem, Netanyahu emphasized that consistent prevention measures are necessary, as the US formulates a new ceasefire proposal that Hamas has rejected thus far.

Israel Demands Security Guarantees at Gaza-Egypt Border

Netanyahu stated that Israel would retain control of the Philadelphi corridor, a critical area along Gaza’s southern border with Egypt. The corridor has been a focal point in ceasefire negotiations due to its history of being used by Hamas to smuggle weapons. Netanyahu stressed that Israel needs verifiable actions, not just words, to ensure that the border area is secured against weapon trafficking.

Hamas Rejection of Ceasefire Proposals Stalls Peace Efforts

The Israeli Prime Minister also pointed out that Hamas has rejected all elements of a ceasefire proposal aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu expressed doubt about the possibility of a breakthrough, stating that Hamas has shown no willingness to negotiate, thus complicating the efforts to end the ongoing conflict.