Mossad Confirms Readiness to Withdraw from "Philadelphi"Amidst Conflicting Statements by Netanyahu

The head of the Mossad, Dedi Barnea, confirmed to mediators on Monday that Israel is prepared to withdraw from the Philadelphia Axis as part of the second phase of the deal for the release of abductees held by Hamas. This statement came just hours before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly asserted that he was not ready to make such a concession. These conflicting signals have caused confusion and concern among those closely following the negotiations.

Barnea, who urgently traveled to Qatar for negotiations, assured the mediators that Israel stands by its commitment to withdraw its forces from the area, as outlined in the Biden administration’s proposed deal. He emphasized that Israel's agreement is contingent upon meeting specific operational requirements. Despite this, Netanyahu's office has neither confirmed nor denied these statements, stating only that the political-security cabinet will discuss the matter at a later date.

Netanyahu's Actions Have Damaged Negotiations

A senior Israeli official informed of the situation revealed that Netanyahu had previously agreed to a complete withdrawal of soldiers from the Philadelphia Axis. The official criticized the Prime Minister’s recent public statements, suggesting they were politically motivated and have harmed the negotiations. "If these demands had not suddenly emerged, there would have been a deal a long time ago," the official stated.

Tensions Within Israeli Negotiation Team

The issue of the Philadelphia Axis has been a source of intense debate within Israel's negotiating team. In a heated meeting in July, Netanyahu ordered a revision of the deal to include a demand for Israeli troops to remain along the axis, despite opposition from key figures like Barnea, Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar, and the head of the Prisoners and Missing Persons Administration, Nitzan Alon. Sources familiar with the talks have described Netanyahu's insistence as a potential deal-breaker.

Hang in the Balance as U.S. Proposal Looms

Despite the apparent setbacks, negotiations have not yet collapsed. A foreign source involved in the talks indicated that while the chances of a deal are slim, communication between the parties continues. The U.S. is expected to present a final compromise proposal in the coming days, which may force both Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar to make difficult decisions.

Biden Pressures Netanyahu for Flexibility

U.S. President Joe Biden's recent criticism of Netanyahu for not doing enough to secure the deal is seen as an attempt to pressure the Israeli leader ahead of the proposal's presentation. The anticipated U.S. document is expected to offer a phased approach, where diluted Israeli forces might remain in the Philadelphia Axis initially, but full withdrawal would be required in a subsequent phase.

Netanyahu Defends Importance of Philadelphia Axis

In his statement on Monday, Netanyahu reiterated the strategic importance of maintaining a presence in the Philadelphia Axis, which he described as vital for Israel's security. He argued that controlling this area is essential for defeating Hamas, securing the release of abductees, and removing the threat from the Gaza Strip.

The ongoing negotiations and the internal discord within the Israeli leadership highlight the complexity and high stakes of the situation, as both sides prepare for a crucial phase in the talks.