Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a surprise visit to troops stationed in southern Gaza on Thursday, just days before he is scheduled to deliver a speech to the US Congress. The visit was announced after Netanyahu had already left Gaza, with more details expected later in the day about its purpose.
This visit comes shortly after Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem, a move seen as provocative. Ben-Gvir’s visit risked disrupting the delicate ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, currently ongoing in Cairo.
The actions of Netanyahu and Ben-Gvir appear timed to send messages ahead of Netanyahu’s upcoming speech in the US. Hours before Netanyahu’s Gaza visit, Israel’s parliament passed a resolution rejecting the establishment of a Palestinian state, a move intended to signal Israel’s stance on the issue.
Ben-Gvir, a controversial leader known for his nationalist views, has been involved in several legal controversies, including convictions related to racism and supporting extremist groups. He claimed his visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque was to pray for the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, without making concessions.
The ceasefire negotiations in Cairo aim to end the nearly 9-month-long conflict between Israel and Hamas. Netanyahu’s surprise visit to Gaza and Ben-Gvir’s actions risk escalating tensions and complicating the peace talks.
ALSO READ: “Netanyahu Reverses Key Ceasefire Concession, Impacting Gaza Negotiations”
Comments