The United States has rejected an Israeli proposal to establish an inspection mechanism at the Netzarim Junction in central Gaza, according to reports by Israeli media on Saturday. The mechanism was intended to screen individuals returning to northern Gaza as part of a potential cease-fire and prisoner exchange agreement. Israel's Channel 12 reported that "significant obstacles" still hinder the progress toward an agreement, with Israel insisting on maintaining a presence in the Philadelphi Corridor on the Gaza-Egypt border and at the Netzarim Junction, which separates the northern and southern parts of Gaza. The US, however, sent a clear message that it would not accept this condition, stating that the option is "off the table." US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to travel to Israel on Saturday to continue efforts to finalize a cease-fire deal, which includes the exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. This visit follows a "bridging proposal" presented by the US, Egypt, and Qatar to narrow the remaining gaps and expedite the implementation of the deal. Hamas has refused to participate in the latest discussions, insisting that Tel Aviv adhere to the agreements made in July, based on a proposal supported by US President Joe Biden. — Agencies
