From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Gallant to White House envoy: Israel may pull out from Philadelphi corridor for solution on smuggling problem
Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told White House Middle East coordinator Brett McGurk last night that Israel could withdraw troops from the Philadelphi corridor as part of a hostage deal, Gallant’s office says.
“A solution is required that will stop smuggling attempts and will cut off potential supply for Hamas, and will enable the withdrawal of IDF troops from the corridor, as part of a framework for the release of hostages,” he said.
He also told McGurk that Israel wants to see the Rafah Crossing reopened, but “will not tolerate the return of Hamas to the area.”
Gallant thanked McGurk along with the Biden administration “for his personal involvement and leadership on the hostage issue,” says his office.
