As protests against Benjamin Netanyahu grew across the country, the Israeli prime minister defended himself against charges of blocking a hostage deal. Citizens and political leaders alike have accused Netanyahu of choosing to maintain IDF presence along the Philadelphia Corridor over the release of hostages. “I ask you for forgiveness that we did not succeed to bring your loved ones back alive. We were close, but we did not succeed,” Netanyahu said on September 2. He, however, continued to emphasise on the “strategic imperative” of keeping Israeli troops along the corridor on Gaza’s border with Egypt.
Read More: “Must Control Philadelphi” Netanyahu Doubles Down Despite Mounting Public Anger On Hostage
