Netanyahu Faces Criticism Amid Hostage Deadlock

Prime Minister Netanyahu's insistence on retaining control of the Philadelphi corridor has led to deadlock in ceasefire negotiations and widespread protests following the recent discovery of six murdered hostages in Gaza. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant criticized Netanyahu, calling the corridor demand a 'moral disgrace' and warning that it jeopardizes the hostages' release. A slight majority of Jewish Israelis oppose relinquishing control of the corridor for a hostage deal, reflecting significant polarization within the country. Hamas demands Israeli withdrawal from the corridor as a condition for any ceasefire. In a rare move, Netanyahu apologized to the families of the deceased hostages for failing to secure their release.