Gantz Accuses Netanyahu of Prioritizing Personal Interests Over National Security Amid Gaza-Egypt Border Dispute
Tel Aviv, Israel – Benny Gantz, the leader of Israel’s center-right National Unity party and a prominent political rival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has sharply criticized the Israeli leader for allegedly prioritizing his political survival over the country’s security and the well-being of Israeli hostages in Gaza. Gantz’s remarks come as Netanyahu doubles down on his insistence that Israel maintain control over the Philadelphi corridor. This stance has become a significant barrier to brokering a ceasefire with Hamas.
Gantz Criticizes Netanyahu’s Leadership
At Tuesday’s Israel Bar Association’s annual conference in Tel Aviv, Gantz accused Netanyahu of having “lost his way,” stating, “He sees himself as the state … this is dangerous.” Gantz’s comments reflect growing frustration within Israel, where some see Netanyahu’s hardline position on the Gaza-Egypt border as an impediment to ending the ongoing conflict.
Netanyahu’s Stance on the Gaza-Egypt Border
On Monday, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel must retain control of the Philadelphi corridor along Gaza’s border with Egypt. This position has reportedly stalled ceasefire and hostage release negotiations. This stance has sparked internal discord within the Israeli government, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant urging Netanyahu to compromise, emphasizing that securing the release of hostages held by Hamas should be the government’s top priority.
Gantz and Eisenkot Counter Netanyahu’s Claims
Gantz, alongside Gadi Eisenkot, another former army chief and member of the National Unity party, planned to deliver speeches on Tuesday evening aimed at countering Netanyahu’s claims and revealing what they describe as “the truth” about the Philadelphi corridor and the hostage situation.
Netanyahu Faces Public and Political Pressure
Netanyahu, who has largely avoided public addresses since the conflict began on October 7, made a rare televised appearance on Monday following unprecedented protests across Israel. These protests, which were intensified by the discovery of six murdered Israeli hostages in Gaza, have fueled widespread public anger and a general strike. In his address, Netanyahu ruled out making any “concessions” in the ongoing negotiations, vowing not to “give in to pressure” as the war with Hamas nears its 12th month.
Negotiations Hit a Wall
An unnamed source in the negotiations told CNN that Netanyahu’s recent speech “torpedoed everything,” indicating that his stubbornness may have derailed efforts to reach a ceasefire. Earlier this year, Hamas and Israel had tentatively agreed to a three-phase peace plan proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden. However, Hamas claims that Israel has introduced new demands, including a permanent military presence along the Gaza-Egypt border and in the Netzarim corridor, complicating the implementation of the original plan.
Tensions Rise Within Israel’s Government
Hamas has long demanded a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. At the same time, Egypt has expressed concerns that a heavy Israeli military presence on its border could threaten the longstanding peace treaty between the two nations.
Netanyahu’s hardline approach has also led to tensions within his cabinet. Gallant’s public call for a compromise underscores the growing divide over navigating the complex and volatile situation. The future of the Philadelphia corridor remains a contentious issue, with significant implications for Israel’s security and broader regional stability.
Violence in Gaza and West Bank Escalates
Meanwhile, the violence in Gaza shows no signs of abating. On Tuesday, Israeli airstrikes targeted a college in Gaza City, resulting in two deaths and 30 injuries, according to Palestinian civil defense officials. The Israeli military stated that Hamas militants were using the educational facility as a base. Additionally, two more people were killed in a bombing at a displacement camp near Khan Younis.
IDF Shifts Focus to West Bank
As the conflict continues in Gaza, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have shifted their focus to the West Bank, now considering it a “secondary front” in the ongoing conflict. Last week, Israel launched its largest military operation in the West Bank in two decades, targeting militant groups in refugee camps following a suicide bombing attempt in Tel Aviv. This escalation, fueled by actions from far-right settlers and their political backers within Netanyahu’s coalition, has raised concerns that the situation in the West Bank could spiral out of control.
Concerns Over Israel’s Security
Israeli defense officials have warned that the violence in the West Bank, combined with the ongoing conflict in Gaza and rising tensions with Hezbollah on the Lebanese border, could pose a severe threat to Israel’s security if not addressed promptly. Internal and external pressures are mounting, and Netanyahu’s government faces increasing scrutiny in handling the situation as the war continues.