For the second occasion in 48 hours, Israel’s premier conducted a press briefing to assert his steadfast stance on the Philadelphi corridor in Gaza, which remains a significant obstacle to reaching a ceasefire.
On Monday, he spoke to Israeli media, while on Wednesday evening, his audience included international reporters.
The urgency behind these two briefings, following months without any press interactions, can be attributed to the mounting pressure he faces from both local constituents and foreign dignitaries.
Both media events were marked by defiance and a lack of concessions—providing little reassurance to the families of hostages yearning for a resolution and a reunion with their loved ones.
Netanyahu contends that Hamas would seek to rearm and possibly smuggle hostages out of Gaza if his troops vacate the southern corridor. He asserts, perhaps accurately, that should they withdraw, international scrutiny would hinder their return.
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On one hand, Netanyahu asserts that Israel does not aim for perpetual presence in Gaza; yet on the other hand, he acknowledges a lack of any alternative force capable of maintaining security along the border.
He is correct: Israel doesn’t trust Egypt—they have not halted Hamas’s smuggling activity prior to October 7; no Arab country is willing to commit troops to Gaza to resolve Israel’s conflict while there is stagnation regarding a two-state resolution for Palestinians, an initiative Netanyahu opposes; and the United States will not place its soldiers at risk for such an endeavor.
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‘We exerted significant effort to secure them’
Consequently, the only scenario that Netanyahu deems acceptable is the Israel Defense Forces and the possibility of an extended occupation.
Netanyahu countered criticisms regarding the civilian casualty rate in Gaza, alleging that journalists frequently disseminate false information, yet claimed—without evidence—that this conflict has resulted in fewer civilian deaths than any prior urban warfare instance.
Over 40,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in nearly eleven months of conflict.
He persisted in alleging that Hamas is thwarting a resolution by adding more stipulations, although mediators and his own security personnel suggest that Netanyahu himself is equally at fault.
Netanyahu finds himself almost isolated at this moment, enduring immense strain from his own populace and the White House while surrounded by an ever-decreasing circle of trusted advisors.
He is convinced that he is acting in the best interest of Israel’s future, yet hasn’t managed to persuade even some of his staunchest allies.
Netanyahu is battling to remain in Gaza, striving to maintain his political standing, and endeavoring to secure his legacy, which has suffered greatly due to the security failures of October 7 and the criticism for his inability to secure the release of hostages.
Many leaders would have surrendered by now, and while this may be the most significant political struggle of Netanyahu’s career, betting against him emerging victorious would be unwise.
