Israel will not withdraw from the strategic corridor in the Gaza Strip, despite demands for a ceasefire, the Associated Press reported, citing an official source, BTA reports.
Israel's refusal could escalate tensions with "Hamas" and complicate Egypt's mediation role at a delicate moment in the fragile truce.
Hours earlier, "Hamas" handed over the remains of four hostages in exchange for the release of more than 600 Palestinian prisoners. It was the last planned exchange of the first phase of the truce, which ends this weekend. Negotiations for the second phase of the swap have not yet begun.
Israeli authorities say they must maintain a presence in the so-called "Philadelphia" corridor, located on the Gaza border with Egypt, in order to prevent arms smuggling. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has mentioned tunnels penetrating the border without providing evidence. Egypt, on the other hand, claims to have destroyed smuggling tunnels on its territory years ago.
Israel was due to begin its withdrawal from the "Philadelphia" corridor on Saturday, but the refusal to do so calls into question compliance with ceasefire agreements. "Hamas" and Egypt have yet to comment on the developments.
Despite the refusal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised to return all hostages and destroy the military capabilities of "Hamas", which still controls Gaza. However, it remains unclear how this will be achieved without resuming the conflict.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said an Israeli delegation would travel to Cairo to negotiate new terms for a ceasefire and expand dialogue with Egypt.