Israeli forces have pulled out of the Netrazim corridor, a crucial strip of land separating northern and southern Gaza, as part of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. This move marks a significant step in the ongoing peace negotiations and signals further progress in the implementation of the ceasefire deal that began in October 2023.
The Netrazim corridor, which stretches approximately 6 kilometers from the Israel-Gaza border to the Mediterranean Sea, became a strategically important military zone after the war broke out. Israel had initially created it to monitor Hamas movements and facilitate military operations. However, the corridor quickly became a point of contention due to its role in restricting the movement of Palestinians between the northern and southern regions of Gaza.
An official from the Israeli military, who requested anonymity, confirmed the withdrawal, and a Hamas official also validated it. The Hamas representative confirmed that Israeli forces had dismantled their positions, removed their tanks, and allowed vehicles to pass freely through the Netzarim Corridor. The shift in control is a direct result of ongoing ceasefire talks and follows a series of successful hostage and prisoner exchanges between the two sides. Israel and Hamas had completed their fifth swap just one day prior to the withdrawal.
As part of the ceasefire agreement, Israel had committed to vacating the Netrazim corridor, allowing Palestinians to cross freely without inspection. After the withdrawal, Israel allowed displaced Palestinian families to return to their homes in northern Gaza, which the ongoing conflict had heavily impacted.
The ceasefire, which has already lasted for 42 days, is expected to lead to further discussions between the two sides regarding a possible extension. The second phase of the ceasefire is underway, with negotiations focused on securing the release of all remaining Israeli hostages in exchange for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sent a delegation of officials to Qatar to engage in these talks, though some have speculated that this may not result in a significant breakthrough.
This latest development further reflects the complex nature of the ceasefire agreement and the ongoing efforts to establish a lasting peace between Israel and Hamas. The withdrawal from the Netrazim corridor represents a critical step toward de-escalation, but achieving a sustainable calm in the region will require much more effort.
