Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu makes surprise visit to Gaza

Netanyahu visited the Rafah border crossing with Egypt and a lookout point overlooking the Philadelphi Corridor, a narrow strip of land that runs along the Gaza side of the border with Egypt. The Israeli military has controlled both areas since the beginning of the Rafah offensive.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Photo: AP

Mr Netanyahu has insisted that control of the Philadelphia corridor and the Rafah crossing is essential for the future, even as the US-backed plan calls for Israel to withdraw from Gaza in exchange for Hamas releasing all hostages.

Netanyahu's visit comes after Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited a holy site in Jerusalem, raising tensions and potentially affecting ceasefire talks. Ben-Gvir vowed to make no international concessions and continue the military campaign in Gaza.

The visit by the two leaders comes after the Israeli parliament passed a resolution rejecting recognition of the state of Palestine. The vote, which took place in an overnight session that lasted until Thursday morning, was largely symbolic and intended to send a message ahead of Netanyahu’s visit to the United States, when he will address Congress.

Hong Hanh (according to AP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/thu-tuong-israel-netanyahu-bat-ngo-den-tham-gaza-post304092.html