What’s happening:

The Wall Street Journal reported that Israel has notified Egypt of its strategic plans to conduct a military operation aimed at regaining control of the Philadelphi Corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border. This area has been past Israeli territory until the disengagement from Gaza in 2005.

Why it matters:

Israel’s aim is to curb the extensive smuggling activities, particularly by Hamas, the de facto ruling authority in the Gaza Strip. Control over the Philadelphi Corridor would enable Israel to suppress the establishment of new tunnels for weapons smuggling into Gaza. The initiative indicates increased Israeli determination to strengthen its security measures along the sensitive border zone.

By the numbers:

The Philadelphi Corridor is a 15-kilometer-long strip that has both geographic and strategic importance, serving as a significant vein for smuggling operations by groups within Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stressed the vitality of control over this corridor for national security.

What they’re saying:

Netanyahu has made clear: “The Philadelphi Corridor must be in our hands, and must be closed.” The message to Cairo elucidates Israel’s plan for a military presence extending from its southeast part – adjacent to both Israel and Egypt – towards the Mediterranean Sea. This move has potential geopolitical ramifications as it could isolate Gaza’s only connection with Egypt and, by extension, the broader Arab world.

What’s next:

Israel is reportedly preparing to deploy its forces for this significant operation against the smuggling network. The forthcoming period will reveal the extent to which these actions will influence the Israel-Gaza-Egypt trilateral relations and impact on the quiet along Gazan borders.

Keep in mind:

Israel’s military activities are subject to ongoing scrutiny. Any action will need to be balanced with the potential for altering regional dynamics and affecting the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.