This comes one day after Netanyahu's declaration. According to a report by Gili Cohen on the evening news, Channel 11, a senior Israeli official relayed this position to the mediators recently. This is despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement that "the Philadelphi Corridor determines our entire future."
The report further states that, according to a source familiar with the negotiations, Israel's stance is to insist on maintaining IDF presence in the Philadelphi Corridor during the first phase of the deal – including a reduction of forces – with a withdrawal from the corridor in the second phase of the deal.
“If We Relinquish Control of the Corridor, Gaza Will Become a Terror Enclave”
Last night, Netanyahu held a press conference where he explained the significance of the Philadelphi Corridor: "In this specific war against Hamas, we have set four objectives: to eliminate Hamas, return our hostages, ensure that Gaza does not pose a threat, and restore security to the northern residents. Three of these objectives hinge on one key factor: the Philadelphi Corridor. I will explain the significance of this corridor and its importance to ensure there is no repeat of October 7th."
He continued, “The question arises: Why haven’t you conquered the corridor if it’s so crucial? There has been continuous arming, and we have fought them in a series of wars – Protective Edge, Pillar of Defense, Cast Lead – we eliminated senior officials, but there was no national or international legitimacy to enter and recapture the Philadelphi Corridor. This corridor will not be evacuated; if we relinquish control, Gaza will turn into a terror enclave."
Netanyahu clarified, "The axis of evil needs the Philadelphi Corridor. That’s why Hamas insists we should not be there, and that’s why I insist we must remain."