Israel Expands Control Over Gaza’s Strategic Border with Egypt
Israel has effectively extended its hold over the Gaza Strip’s entire land border. On May 30, 2024, the Israeli military announced that it had “established operational control” over the strategically important buffer zone separating Gaza from Egypt. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Strategic Importance of the Philadelphi Corridor
The 9-mile-wide corridor, referred to by the Israeli military as the “Philadelphi Corridor,” was the last segment of Gaza’s land border not directly controlled by Israel. Until this recent move, the corridor served as a vital passage for Hamas to smuggle weapons and other materials into Gaza. The Israeli military’s chief spokesperson, Daniel Hagari, emphasized that the corridor had been a critical supply line for Hamas.
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Hagari did not clarify what was meant by “operational control,” but reports from Egypt’s state-run Al-Qahera News disputed Israeli claims of discovering 20 Hamas tunnels in the corridor. This area, originally intended as a demilitarized zone, has been under Hamas control since 2007, with extensive tunnel networks facilitating smuggling activities despite a blockade by Israel and Egypt.
Escalation in Rafah and International Reactions
The seizure of the Philadelphi Corridor comes amid intensified Israeli military operations in Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city. These operations have resulted in significant casualties among Palestinians. The White House confirmed that Israel’s actions were aligned with plans discussed with President Joe Biden’s administration, indicating a “limited” operation in Rafah.
National security spokesman John Kirby reiterated that Israel’s movements along the corridor were anticipated. Meanwhile, Israeli national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi suggested that the conflict with Hamas could extend until the end of the year, highlighting the ongoing nature of military objectives aimed at dismantling Hamas’s capabilities.
Historical Context and Future Implications
Since Hamas’s takeover of Gaza in 2007, the group has utilized tunnels to circumvent blockades and bring in supplies. A 2023 investigation by Middle East Eye revealed that Egyptian military engineers had destroyed over 2,000 tunnels connecting Gaza to Egypt since 2011. Egypt, battling local militants aligned with the Islamic State group, had even considered digging a canal along the Gaza border to enhance security.
Negotiations for a cease-fire and the release of hostages held by Hamas have stalled, despite mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. The prolonged conflict and Israel’s latest actions in controlling the Philadelphi Corridor signal a potentially protracted and intensified phase of the conflict.
In summary, Israel’s control over the Philadelphi Corridor represents a significant shift in the dynamics of the Gaza conflict. The move aims to cut off Hamas’s supply lines, but it also risks escalating tensions further. As military operations continue, the prospects for a cease-fire and lasting peace remain uncertain, with both sides preparing for extended conflict.
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