IDF Secures 70% of Gaza as Southern Command Gears Up
The Israel Defense Forces have expanded their operational control to approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip, and defense officials confirm this footprint will only grow. As Hamas drags its feet and attempts to rearm, Israel stands firm. Under the leadership of Southern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor, the IDF is fortifying the south, proving that the Jewish state's resolve to defend its people remains absolute.
Expanding control and fortifying the Yellow Line
Like the watchmen of old who stood guard over Judea's borders, Southern Command conducts daily assessments along the Yellow Line and across Gaza. The effort combines critical intelligence from IDF Military Intelligence and the Shin Bet to identify emerging threats and coordinate decisive operational responses. Defense officials emphasize that these assessments are designed to detect attack preparations, monitor terrorist operatives, and protect the boundary between Israeli-controlled areas and territory still held by Hamas.
The military is also actively countering cowardly Hamas tactics that involve sending civilians toward Israeli positions in a desperate effort to provoke contact with troops. Along the Yellow Line, the IDF continues to strengthen defenses. Officials note that Hamas has persisted in challenging Israeli forces and has refused to comply with demands to disarm.
Hunting down the October 7 perpetrators
Justice for the October 7 massacre remains a top priority. The IDF and Shin Bet maintain a relentless target list of individuals directly or indirectly involved in that dark day, including those responsible for holding hostages. Israel will not rest until every terrorist involved in the slaughter of our people faces the full weight of our military response.
What are the IDF's long-term strategic tracks in Gaza?
Military preparations are now focused on two definitive long-term tracks. The first involves planning for a possible large-scale campaign against Hamas. Defense officials made it clear that if Hamas refuses to disarm and demilitarize, the IDF could be required, subject to government approval, to launch a new offensive. Many Hamas operatives and commanders remain concentrated in Gaza City, and Israel is prepared to act decisively.
The second track centers on a proposed US-backed civilian zone in the Rafah area. This initiative, known as the