Israel maintains Gaza presence pending Hamas removal and demilitarization

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel will not withdraw from its current positions in Gaza until Hamas is removed and the enclave is demilitarized. Speaking at a state memorial, Katz noted that forces would remain along the ‘Yellow Line’ established under an October 2025 ceasefire. He also issued a warning that if any Israeli soldier or civilian is abducted, Gaza City’s one million residents would face mass evacuation to the south.

In the United States, the Trump administration has proposed a $2.8 billion sale of 40,000 heavy bombs to Israel. The deal faces scrutiny from members of Congress, including Representative Gregory Meeks, who has signaled intent to withhold clearance due to concerns regarding civilian protections and the lawful use of the munitions. The proposed transfer comes amid international accusations regarding the role of military assistance in the conflict.

Palestinian Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh has accused the Israeli government of turning West Bank areas into ‘mass detention camps’ through checkpoints and land seizures. Meanwhile, Gaza-based health authorities reported that 1,399 Palestinians have been killed since the October ceasefire took effect, bringing the total death toll since October 7, 2023, to 73,919.