Meir Ben Shabbat: There are those who believe that we can temporarily relinquish control—for 42 days—until the first phase of the deal is completed, and then, if the deal does not progress, return and regain control of the area.

Of course, the IDF has the ability, operationally, [to] reoccupy this corridor even after 42 days, but it’s not just a matter of military capability. Everyone understands that once we leave, Israel will face immense diplomatic pressure from the U.S. and other countries not to return.

Published in JNS, September 5, 2024.