Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would not move from the 'yellow line' in the Gaza Strip until Hamas had been fully disarmed. This statement emphasizes Israel's commitment to maintaining their position in the region, asserting that they will not permit Hamas to retain any weapons or tunnels. Katz made these remarks during a conference organized by the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, where he reiterated the necessity of dismantling Hamas's military infrastructure, declaring, "until the last tunnel" is dealt with, Israel will remain resolute in its stance.

Accompanying Katz's firm position were critical remarks from former cabinet member Gadi Eizenkot, who highlighted the government's failures in neutralizing Hamas's military capabilities, despite more than two years since the last conflict. Eizenkot's critique suggests that the objectives originally set by the Israeli government are still far from achieved, which points to a significant disconnect between political rhetoric and operational realities on the ground. He underscored the urgency of addressing this situation, indicating that the current strategy may not be effective in preventing future escalations between Israel and Hamas.

This development emerges amid heightened tensions and a precarious ceasefire in the region, as Katz's statement follows a warning from Israeli government secretary Yossi Fox, who provided a 60-day ultimatum for disarming Palestinian factions. Such declarations could provoke further tensions and conflict, raising concerns about the sustainability of peace in an already volatile area. The situation continues to evolve, with implications for both Israeli-Palestinian relations and broader regional stability.