Israel approves border plan between Gaza, Egypt

The Israeli Security Cabinet approved maps confirming that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will continue operating in the Philadelphi Corridor. 

The decision, passed with eight votes in favor, faced opposition from Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and an abstention from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

These maps, created by the IDF and endorsed by the US as part of a hostage negotiation proposal, are seen by ministers as a step toward making a deal with Hamas more viable. They hope to signal to Hamas that compromises on the corridor are necessary, similar to concessions on ending the war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasised that the October 7 attack occurred because Israel lacked control over the Philadelphi Corridor, through which a significant amount of weapons were smuggled and used by terrorist groups in Gaza.

Netanyahu assured that Israel is committed to maintaining control of the corridor and noted that previous security assessments regarding Hamas's rocket capabilities and other issues were inaccurate.