Israel Balances Military Pressure and Diplomacy as Hamas Seeks Strength in Gaza

On Tuesday morning, a visit to Ali Munter Hill near Gaza's Shuja'iya neighborhood revealed the stark transformation of the area since 1967, from orchards and fields to a landscape dominated by ruins and concrete rubble. The Israeli military maintains a fortified position on the hill, equipped with advanced surveillance and weaponry to monitor and prevent Hamas attacks. Currently, Israel controls about 64% of Gaza's territory, up from roughly 50% after the 2025 ceasefire, with 42 military outposts encircling Hamas-controlled areas.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue targeted killings of Hamas operatives, recently eliminating several senior commanders, with over 520 militants killed since the ceasefire began in October 2025. These operations, often conducted by drones, aim to degrade Hamas's military capabilities and prevent its rearmament. Meanwhile, Israel has uncovered and neutralized approximately 85% of Hamas's extensive tunnel network beneath Gaza, using advanced technology and controlled demolitions.

Hamas, while avoiding renewed full-scale conflict, faces pressure from Israel's territorial advances and targeted strikes. The group seeks to halt Israeli incursions and assassinations, maintain political control, and eventually transition to the second phase of the Trump peace plan, which involves disarmament, a step Hamas resists for now. Internally, Hamas suppresses rival armed factions within Gaza and controls humanitarian aid and taxation to sustain its governance.

Parallel to military efforts, Israel supports the implementation of the Trump administration's "20-point plan" through the American-led Peace Council based in Kiryat Gat. This includes facilitating humanitarian aid entry under strict security checks and preparing for potential reconstruction projects, such as a new neighborhood dubbed "Green Gaza." However, Hamas actively obstructs these efforts, fearing depopulation of its territory and loss of influence.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz remain committed to completely dismantling Hamas's military power, navigating between U.S. diplomatic pressures and domestic political demands. The IDF's strategy combines defensive fortifications, intelligence operations, and incremental territorial gains to maintain pressure on Hamas while avoiding escalation. The international Peace Council and regional actors like Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt have differing interests, complicating the path forward.

The situation remains fragile, with all parties awaiting Israel's upcoming elections and Hamas's response to the revised peace roadmap. The IDF and Peace Council are prepared for a phased disarmament of Hamas, contingent on security guarantees and political developments. No major changes are expected before late October 2026, with ongoing low-intensity conflict and diplomatic maneuvering continuing in Gaza.