Israel's Military Takes Control of Strategic Gaza Land Border with Egypt: A Comprehensive Look
Over the past few days, Israel's military has announced that it has taken operational control of the Philadelphi Corridor, a strategically important buffer zone between Gaza and Egypt. This 9-mile-wide area was previously not directly controlled by Israel and had been used by Hamas to smuggle weapons into the Gaza Strip.
The Israeli military's move comes as part of its ongoing campaign against Hamas following the Oct. 7 attacks, which left roughly 1,200 people dead and 253 taken hostage in Israel. The Philadelphia Corridor served as an oxygen line for Hamas, allowing the militant group to smuggle weapons into Gaza.
Israeli military officials have stated that their forces pushed into the corridor to crack down on Hamas' ability to rearm by smuggling munitions through tunnels from Egypt. However, Egyptian military engineers have reportedly destroyed over 2,000 tunnels connecting Gaza to Egypt since 2011.
The Israeli military's seizure of the Philadelphi Corridor has been met with silence from Egypt. The two countries have a peace agreement in place that allows for only a small number of troops or border guards to be deployed in the demilitarized zone along their entire border, including the corridor.
The Israeli military's operation in Rafah, which began on May 10, has resulted in at least 53 deaths and 357 injuries according to Gaza's health ministry. Negotiations aimed at an Israel-Hamas cease-fire and the return of hostages held by Hamas have appeared to stall.
Israeli national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi has stated that the war against Hamas could continue until the end of the year, with Israel aiming to destroy Hamas' power and military capabilities.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has been seeking international support for humanitarian assistance to Gaza amidst growing public anger over the Israeli military's actions. China has pledged $10 million in aid, while the US and Qatar have also offered assistance.
Despite tensions between Israel and Egypt, it is important to note that both countries share a mutual interest in maintaining stability in the region. The situation remains fluid, with developments likely to unfold over the coming days.