Netanyahu defends criticism, faces backlash over exclusion of West Bank cities from map

During a Monday press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to criticisms while standing before a map of Israel that excluded cities in the occupied West Bank.

Addressing accusations that he blocked a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, Netanyahu firmly stated, “We will not withdraw from the Philadelphi Corridor, neither in 42 days nor in 42 years,” emphasizing the corridor’s importance to Israel’s military goals in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Hamas’ armed wing Al-Qassam Brigade’s spokesperson Abu Ubaida warned that Israel would only receive the bodies of captives if it attempted to free them through military means rather than negotiations.

Criticism from Israeli officials

Netanyahu expressed shock at Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who have called for an end to Israel’s occupation of the Philadelphi Corridor after the discovery of the remains of six Israeli captives in Gaza last week. He emphasized that the decision to stay was binding for everyone.

Addressing the protests and criticism against him, Netanyahu insisted, “No one is more committed to rescuing Israeli captives than I am; no one can challenge me on this.” Amid growing protests accusing him of being reluctant to pursue a prisoner exchange, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s commitment to reaching a cease-fire and an exchange agreement but claimed that Hamas had not responded in kind.

Hamas’ response to Netanyahu

Hamas official Izzat al-Rishq responded, accusing Netanyahu of obstructing a cease-fire and prisoner exchange while seeking a “phantom victory” in Gaza.

Netanyahu’s statements coincided with an ongoing Israeli military operation targeting the northern West Bank cities of Jenin and Tulkarm. His presentation of a map that excluded West Bank cities also drew attention amid these events.