Israel Approves Swift Gaza Troop Withdrawal via Netzarim Corridor, Advances Prisoner Talks in Qatar

Jan 12, 2025, 03:55 AM

The Israeli military has approved plans for a swift withdrawal of troops from large areas of the Gaza Strip, according to media reports citing the Haaretz newspaper. This move comes amid progress in prisoner exchange negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The military has examined several options for the withdrawal, including the use of the Netzarim Corridor, which divides Gaza into two sections. Despite having established extensive infrastructure in the region, the Israeli forces stated their readiness to implement any agreement reached by the government and Hamas, which could involve a rapid troop pullback from Gaza. In a related development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorized a high-level delegation, including Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, to travel to Qatar to continue these negotiations. The talks are reportedly close to finalizing a cease-fire and prisoner swap deal, with 90% of the details already agreed upon.