Netanyahu Tours Gaza, Claims 60% Control, Vows No Withdrawal

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted a tour of a military outpost within the Gaza Strip, near the "Yellow Line," accompanied by senior IDF commanders. During his visit, Netanyahu declared that Israel currently controls 60% of the Gaza Strip and that IDF forces will remain in place without withdrawal. He emphasized the ongoing efforts to eliminate threats and secure Israeli communities near the border.

Netanyahu was briefed by commanders on the operational situation, troop activities, and defensive preparations for communities in the Gaza envelope. Addressing soldiers and commanders, he stated, "We control the area. You can see Ashkelon from here, you can see all our communities from all directions: Sderot, Netivot, the kibbutzim." He reiterated Israel's commitment to holding the ground, asserting, "We are not withdrawing. We are staying on this line."

The Prime Minister also highlighted recent successes, including the capture of a senior Hamas security official. "Yesterday we took the head of Hamas's security apparatus. We will certainly learn some things," Netanyahu remarked, referring to the operation. He outlined the broader goals of the campaign as dismantling Hamas's military capabilities and demilitarizing Gaza, stating that this objective has been largely achieved, with further work remaining.

Recent Israeli military operations have intensified against Hamas targets, despite an official ceasefire in October 2025. Defense officials state these actions are aimed at neutralizing immediate threats and thwarting Hamas's rearmament efforts. Hamas, however, accuses Israel of violating understandings and continuing attacks.

The article also details a special operation where Israeli forces apprehended Hamas's head of internal security in Gaza City without casualties, transferring him for interrogation. This individual is accused of leading efforts to consolidate Hamas's control in northern Gaza and planning attacks against IDF forces. Concurrently, the Israeli Air Force conducted strikes in the area to secure the operation. The report also mentions the targeted killings of two senior Hamas military security officials involved in rebuilding the organization's capabilities and hostile activities against Israel.