Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a surprise visit to Rafah in the Gaza Strip to assert Israel's commitment to retaining control over the Rafah crossing and the Gaza-Egypt border, whatever may be the case with a possible ceasefire or agreement on hostages.
He met with military leaders in the Rafah area Thursday, which Israel has occupied since the beginning of May. He also toured the "Philadelphia Corridor," the border area between Gaza and Egypt, according to Xinhua.
In a videotaped statement, surrounded by soldiers, Netanyahu said it was important for the future of Israel to continue to hold the Philadelphia Corridor and the Rafah crossing.
He also announced that he would travel to Washington the following week to address both houses of the US Congress, where his declared aim was to justify the ongoing Israeli operations in Gaza.
The visit comes amidst ongoing talks in Cairo over a possible deal. Key sticking points include the Rafah crossing and the Philadelphia Corridor. Israeli officials, including Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, have hinted that Israel would be willing to withdraw from the areas if there can be an agreement that results in the release of some 120 hostages still held in Gaza.
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