U.S. Considers Applying Pressure on P.M Netanyahu who Insists on staying in "Philadelphi" Axis

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to stand firm on maintaining a presence in the Philadelphia axis, despite growing international pressure. Hamas, meanwhile, has officially rejected additional proposals for a potential hostage exchange deal, accusing Netanyahu of deliberately sabotaging negotiations.

The American administration, Qatar, and Egypt are expected to present a new mediation proposal, the second in less than a month. U.S. officials remain pessimistic about the chances of success, acknowledging that significant obstacles remain on both sides.

Hamas Blames Netanyahu for Stalling

In a statement issued late Wednesday, Hamas claimed Netanyahu’s insistence on staying in the Philadelphia axis is intended to block any potential deal. "Pressure must be applied to Netanyahu and his government to hold them to what was already agreed upon," Hamas stated.

Despite Hamas' rejection, American diplomats are still working behind the scenes to facilitate a compromise. U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to present the proposal in the coming days, although it remains unclear whether it will be a solo U.S. initiative or a joint effort with Qatar and Egypt.

U.S. Considers Applying Pressure on Netanyahu

In Washington, there is growing consideration to increase pressure on Netanyahu to compromise, particularly by "dramatically diluting" Israeli forces in the Philadelphia axis. The proposal reportedly includes provisions to ensure Israel's security through "unprecedented steps" without a full Israeli military presence.

Senior American officials familiar with the new proposal said it would provide Hamas with most of its demands, while Israel has already made significant concessions. However, they acknowledge that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar will also likely reject the offer.

Netanyahu Faces Internal Political Pressure

Netanyahu's public statements indicate his reluctance to withdraw from the Philadelphia axis, citing the need for a presence to prevent future smuggling. His stance is partially influenced by political pressure from key ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, who have threatened to dissolve the government over a "promiscuous deal."

Despite Netanyahu’s hardline position, he left the door open to a potential phased withdrawal, starting with a reduction of Israeli forces over 42 days in the first phase of the deal. He emphasized that any permanent ceasefire agreement would require additional negotiations.

State Department Urges Flexibility 

U.S. State Department officials have publicly called for flexibility from both Israel and Hamas. Spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that in a previous proposal from May, Israel had agreed to evacuate from "densely populated areas," which includes the Philadelphia axis. He stressed the need for both parties to show flexibility to reach a ceasefire agreement.

Meanwhile, another State Department spokesman, Samuel Warberg, reiterated in an interview with Sky News in Arabic that both Israel and Hamas share responsibility for the failure to reach an agreement so far. He also suggested that Israel can ensure its security even without a military presence in the Philadelphia axis.

Egyptian Official Criticizes Netanyahu

A senior Egyptian official harshly criticized Netanyahu’s refusal to withdraw from the Philadelphia axis, calling it a "message to Washington" that undermines ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages. The official, quoted by Egyptian media, accused Netanyahu of using the smuggling issue to cover up failures in Gaza and the West Bank.

As both sides remain entrenched in their positions, the chances of a breakthrough in the negotiations appear slim, and the upcoming U.S. proposal may represent one of the last opportunities to secure a deal.