Netanyahu’s sabotaging cease-fire deal casts shadow at Democratic Convention

The message from Chicago is unequivocal—peace in Gaza cannot wait, and Netanyahu must be held accountable for his role in the ongoing conflict

Muslim Network TV Desk

CHICAGO (MNTV) – As the Palestinian issue remained in focus at the Democratic Convention in Chicago, possibility of a truce in Gaza looks distant due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent maneuvers.

Israeli sources speaking to American news website Axios claim Netanyahu’s hardened stance, particularly his refusal to withdraw from key areas in Gaza, is hindering progress on a cease-fire and prisoner exchange.

His fluctuating demands and hardline stance are being seen as a major obstacle to peace, further complicating an already volatile situation in the Middle East.

According to Axios, Netanyahu has been accused of repeatedly altering his demands during the cease-fire negotiations, making it increasingly difficult to reach an agreement.

Netanyahu’s insistence on maintaining a military presence in key areas of Gaza, particularly the Philadelphi corridor on the Egypt-Gaza border, has been a significant sticking point.

This corridor, crucial for controlling access to Gaza, has been a contentious issue between Israel and Hamas for years.

Reports suggest that Netanyahu’s negotiating team, including Mossad Director David Barnea, Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar, and General Nitzan Alon, has reportedly urged the Prime Minister to show more flexibility.

They believe that without some concessions, a cease-fire deal is unlikely.

However, Netanyahu has remained steadfast, arguing that Hamas will eventually cave if Israel holds firm.

The Biden administration, which has been actively involved in the negotiations, is now facing pressure from within its own party as the Democratic Convention progresses.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken had hoped to secure a deal before the end of the convention, a symbolic gesture that would underscore the U.S. commitment to peace in the Middle East.

However, Netanyahu’s hardline stance has not only stalled the talks but has potential to create a diplomatic rift between Israel and its key ally, the United States.

Despite public statements of optimism, behind-the-scenes reports indicate that Israeli officials are privately skeptical about the prospects of reaching a deal under the current conditions.

At the Democratic Convention in Chicago, the issue has become a focal point of debate. Several high-profile speakers, including members of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, have criticized Netanyahu’s actions.

They argue that his refusal to compromise is jeopardizing not only the cease-fire talks but also the broader U.S.-Israel relationship.

Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, speaking at the convention, highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and called for a more balanced approach.

“We cannot stand by while children in Gaza suffer. A ceasefire is not just a political necessity; it’s a moral imperative. Netanyahu’s intransigence is costing lives, and we must hold him accountable,” she said to resounding applause.

Meanwhile, former President Barack Obama, who remains an influential figure within the party, made a pointed reference to the situation in his convention speech.

Without naming Netanyahu directly, Obama emphasized the need for “courageous leadership” in the Middle East, urging all parties to prioritize peace over political posturing.

The Democratic Convention has seen a surge of support for these humanitarian efforts, with several delegates pledging to push for increased U.S. aid to Gaza.

The convention’s resolution committee is reportedly considering a formal resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire and a lifting of the blockade to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need.

Back in Israel, Netanyahu is also facing mounting pressure from within his own government and from the Israeli public.

Families of prisoners held in Gaza, who had been hopeful that a cease-fire deal would lead to a prisoner exchange, have expressed their frustration with Netanyahu’s tactics.

They accuse him of prioritizing his political survival over the lives of their loved ones.

Israeli media reports suggest that there is significant tension within Netanyahu’s negotiating team.

Some members, including Major General Nitzan Alon, have reportedly refused to participate in further talks unless Netanyahu shows more flexibility.

Alon, who has been instrumental in the negotiations, is said to believe that without compromise on the Philadelphi corridor, the talks are doomed to fail.

The coming days will be crucial in determining whether a cease-fire can be reached.

At the convention, the consensus is clear: the international community, and particularly the United States, must play a more active role in securing peace.

As the convention moves toward its conclusion, the message from Chicago is unequivocal—peace in Gaza cannot wait, and Netanyahu must be held accountable for his role in the ongoing conflict.