Netanyahu: Hamas Blocking Ceasefire by Refusing to Surrender Philadelphi Route

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that Hamas is obstructing a ceasefire agreement by refusing to concede control of the Philadelphi Route, a crucial security corridor between Gaza and Egypt. Netanyahu emphasizes the significance of securing hostages' release and preserving Israel's national security as paramount reasons for holding onto this strategic passage.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains steadfast in his refusal to withdraw Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, citing two compelling reasons: national security and the imperative to ensure the safe return of Israeli hostages still held captive by Hamas.

"We're doing everything we can to get the remainder [of the hostages] out," Netanyahu asserted in an interview with Fox News' "Fox & Friends." "But Hamas consistently refuses to make a deal."

Netanyahu: Hamas Blocking Ceasefire by Refusing to Surrender Philadelphi Route

Hamas' continued control of the Philadelphi Route poses a significant threat to Israel's security, giving the terrorist organization a potential avenue for rearming and transforming Gaza into an Iranian terror enclave. Moreover, Netanyahu believes that maintaining control of the corridor is crucial for preventing Hamas from smuggling hostages into Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, which has long been a haven for Islamic militant groups.

The Jewish Chronicle has reported that Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar is devising a secret plan to smuggle himself, other Hamas leaders, and Israeli hostages out of Gaza through the Philadelphi corridor and ultimately to Iran. While some Israeli news outlets have disputed this claim, Netanyahu's comments reflect concern over the potential consequences of Hamas gaining such leverage.

Netanyahu: Hamas Blocking Ceasefire by Refusing to Surrender Philadelphi Route

Despite Netanyahu's firm stance, Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism on Thursday that negotiations for a ceasefire were progressing well. "I think based on what I’ve seen, 90 percent is agreed, but there are a few critical issues that remain where we need to be able to get agreement," he said.

Blinken identified the Philadelphi corridor and the specifics of hostage and prisoner exchange as key sticking points. If an updated deal can be reached, Blinken suggested that Egypt and Qatar would present it to Hamas, while the U.S. would present it to Israel for approval.

Netanyahu: Hamas Blocking Ceasefire by Refusing to Surrender Philadelphi Route

The assassination of six Israeli hostages last month further heightened tensions and complicated ceasefire efforts. Netanyahu has strongly opposed U.S. attempts to broker a cease-fire, arguing that Israel must maintain its red lines for security and survival.

The exact details of the proposed ceasefire agreement have remained confidential, but reports suggest that Israel's refusal to vacate the Philadelphi Route has been a major impediment to Hamas's acceptance. Netanyahu has refuted these claims, emphasizing that Israel's objectives go beyond mere control of the corridor.

Netanyahu: Hamas Blocking Ceasefire by Refusing to Surrender Philadelphi Route

In addition to securing the release of hostages, Netanyahu stressed the need to prevent Hamas from rearming and establishing an Iranian terror enclave in Gaza. "One, get the hostages out. And second, keep the red lines that are necessary for Israel's security and survival. I think both of them go through holding the Philadelphi corridor," he stated.

Despite Netanyahu's strong opposition and Hamas' apparent unwillingness to surrender more hostages, Blinken expressed hope that an updated deal could be presented within the coming days, paving the way for a possible ceasefire agreement between the two sides.

Netanyahu: Hamas Blocking Ceasefire by Refusing to Surrender Philadelphi Route