IDF Fires on Hamas Sniper Near Northern Gaza 'Yellow Line' Under New Rules

On Tuesday afternoon, forces from the IDF's 99th Division identified a Hamas sniper posing an immediate threat near the "yellow line" where Israeli troops operate in northern Gaza. Following the identification, the troops fired at the sniper to neutralize the threat, successfully hitting the target. This marks the first reported strike under the IDF's new operational guidelines in Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel's opposition to the Gaza Peace Council's plans, though officials acknowledge that Israel is effectively cooperating with the council on the ground. Following directives from the political echelon, the IDF shifted from an offensive posture to a reactive one, requiring all actions to receive approval from Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir.

Since last week, immediate authorization is granted only for strikes aimed at removing imminent threats, while targeted eliminations require approval from both the Chief of Staff and political leadership. The IDF spokesperson emphasized that southern command forces remain deployed according to the agreement and will continue to act against any immediate threats. Until now, IDF forces had not fired beyond the "yellow line," but this incident involved neutralizing a sniper positioned close to that line who endangered Israeli troops.