The United States has rejected an Israeli proposal to establish an inspection mechanism at the Netzarim Junction in central Gaza, according to Israeli media reports on Saturday. The proposed mechanism was intended to screen individuals returning to northern Gaza as part of a potential cease-fire and prisoner exchange agreement.
Israel’s Channel 12 reported that “significant obstacles” continue to hinder progress toward an agreement. Israel is adamant about maintaining a presence in the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border and at the Netzarim Junction, which divides northern and southern Gaza. However, the U.S. has firmly opposed this condition, making it clear that this option is “off the table.”
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit Israel on Saturday to continue efforts to finalize a cease-fire deal. The agreement under discussion includes the exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Blinken’s visit follows a “bridging proposal” put forth by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, aimed at narrowing the remaining gaps and expediting the deal’s implementation.
Despite ongoing negotiations, Hamas has refused to participate in the latest discussions, insisting that Tel Aviv adhere to agreements made in July, based on a proposal supported by U.S. President Joe Biden.
As the situation remains fluid, the U.S. continues its diplomatic efforts to broker a resolution, but significant challenges persist in reaching a consensus.