Haaretz: Israel Requests 'Private Security Companies' to Manage Rafah Crossing Instead of the Authority

SadaNews - The Hebrew newspaper "Haaretz" revealed in a report published today, Saturday, the behind-the-scenes of the intensive security talks between Tel Aviv and Washington regarding the future management of the Rafah crossing.

The newspaper quoted informed sources stating that the Israeli government proposed deploying "private security companies" to take over operations at the crossing, as an alternative to the return of forces belonging to the Palestinian Authority.

The sources confirmed that Israeli ambitions went beyond private companies, as Tel Aviv expressed a desire for the presence of official American forces inside the crossing to secure operations and ensure that weapons are not smuggled. However, this proposal was met with "strong American rejection," as the Washington administration insists on not involving its soldiers in field missions inside the Gaza Strip.

Regarding other international initiatives, "Haaretz" pointed to a proposal for European forces to supervise Palestinian security personnel at the crossing. Although this plan has matured technically, the source confirmed that Israel expressed "lack of trust" in both parties (the European and the Palestinian), considering that this model may not provide the necessary security guarantees it demands.