Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday that its Southern Brigade destroyed two underground attack routes in the Gaza Strip that were two kilometers long. “In the strikes, a terrorist cell that attempted to plant an explosive device was eliminated, and anti-tank positions and terrorist infrastructure that posed a danger to the forces were destroyed,” the military said. The engineering unit of the IDF’s Gaza division reportedly completed the military operation in collaboration with the military’s Yahalam unit in recent weeks. The Israeli army also reportedly bombed a house in Gaza earlier today, killing three Palestinians and injuring more.
Katz: Control of Gaza to remain in Israel’s hands
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz insisted on Wednesday that the country will ensure the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) remain in control of the Gaza Strip despite the ongoing negotiations about a new ceasefire with Hamas possibly featuring a different prerequisite. “We will make sure there are security zones, buffer zones, and strategic posts which will ensure the security of towns,” Katz said during a visit to a unit stationed in Gaza. “There will be no Hamas rule and no Hamas military. We will create a new reality here, thanks to the daily fighting, which is continuing even now.” Katz’s comments came after Israel denied Hamas’s claims of the country including new demands in the list of conditions to reach a ceasefire.