Netanyahu asserts Israel's intent to maintain control of Philadelphi Corridor

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the Israeli army intends to maintain control over the Philadelphi Corridor, a strategic zone on the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

Netanyahu made this statement during an interview with Channel 14 of Israeli television, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

Netanyahu emphasized the political and security advantages of controlling the Philadelphi Corridor, stating, "This [control over the Philadelphi Corridor] has both political and security advantages." He acknowledged that there are differing opinions within the government, particularly highlighting the stance of Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, who had previously suggested the possibility of withdrawing troops from the area. However, Netanyahu clarified that Galant's opinion does not represent the entire government's position.

"Everyone is allowed to express his opinion, and the prime minister is also allowed to express his opinion. In the end, we will make a decision in accordance with the majority opinion, and I am sure that the majority supports my position," Netanyahu asserted.

The Philadelphi Corridor is a strategically significant strip of land that straddles the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. It is a key area for controlling the movement of goods and people between Gaza and Egypt. The corridor is named after the Philadelphi area of ancient Egypt, which historically was a key transit route.

The Corridor has historically been a contentious area, and Israel's control over it is often viewed as a means to prevent the smuggling of weapons and to maintain a buffer zone between Gaza and Egypt.