Israel’s takeover of the Philadelphi Corridor along Gaza’s border with Egypt sparks tensions with Egypt amidst ongoing military operations, raising concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian crisis in the region.
On May 29, 2024, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced it had gained full operational control over the Philadelphi Corridor, a 14km-long buffer zone along Gaza’s border with Egypt, marking the first time Israel controlled the Gaza Strip’s entire land border. IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated the corridor was used by Hamas for smuggling weapons into Gaza.
The Philadelphi Corridor had been vital for Hamas, with claims of approximately 20 tunnels being discovered in the area. Egypt, however, denies the existence of these tunnels and accuses Israel of using such allegations to justify its military operations, particularly in the city of Rafah. Egypt maintains that it had previously destroyed all cross-border tunnels.
This military advancement comes amidst heightened tensions between Israel and Egypt, especially after incidents involving the death of an Egyptian soldier and the ongoing capture of Rafah’s crossing points by Israeli forces.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties. Over 36,000 Palestinians have been killed since the hostilities commenced, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which claims most of the dead are civilians, including women and children. Efforts by international bodies to reach ceasefire agreements have yet to succeed, with the U.S. expressing reluctance to support current U.N. ceasefire initiatives, citing concerns over the continuation of hostilities and the political implications.
Israeli National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi projected that military operations in Gaza might continue through the end of 2024 to dismantle Hamas’s and Islamic Jihad’s capabilities. This statement contradicts earlier declarations by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting an imminent victory.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with critical infrastructure heavily affected, leading to severe limitations on medical and aid capabilities. The international community continues to call for a resolution to prevent further civilian harm.
