'Israel' to expand control beyond “yellow line” in Gaza, coordinating move with US: Sources
'Israeli' media reported Tuesday that 'Israel' has decided to expand its control over Gaza beyond the so-called “Yellow Line,” coordinating the move with the United States.
The 'Israeli' Public Broadcasting Corporation cited an informed source saying, “The area under Israeli control in Gaza will be extended beyond the Yellow Line.”
The “Yellow Line” refers to the initial withdrawal line outlined in President Donald Trump’s plan, part of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and 'Israel', which came into effect on October 10. It separates areas still occupied by 'Israeli' forces east of the line from areas in the west where Palestinians are allowed to move freely.
On October 10, the 'Israeli' army partially withdrew from positions east of the Yellow Line to new locations inside Gaza, which, according to army estimates, covers more than 50 percent of the territory.
The decision to expand 'Israeli' control beyond the Yellow Line followed security consultations led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday evening to discuss “imposing sanctions on Hamas.” An unnamed source told the broadcaster that Netanyahu is currently discussing the matter with senior US officials to coordinate the move.
Meanwhile, the 'Israeli' newspaper 'Israel' Hayom cited an unnamed American source stating, “We oppose any significant change to the Yellow Line, as well as any ground incursion by the Israeli army into Gaza.”
An American official speaking to Axios said senior figures in the Trump administration told Netanyahu’s team that they did not see a material violation of the agreement by Hamas. These officials urged 'Israel' not to take radical measures that could push the ceasefire to the brink of collapse.
Shortly afterward, Netanyahu convened an emergency security meeting and reportedly decided to resume airstrikes on Gaza while expanding 'Israel’s' presence in the Palestinian territory. The meeting included Defense Minister Israel Katz, Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, and Shin Bet chief David Zini. Netanyahu’s office stated: “Following security consultations, the Prime Minister instructed the military to carry out strong and immediate strikes in Gaza.”
Earlier on Tuesday, 'Israeli' media, including the Public Broadcasting Corporation, reported artillery and airstrikes on Rafah. 'Israel' claimed the attacks followed anti-tank rocket fire and sniper attacks by Hamas on 'Israeli' forces east of the Yellow Line, though Hamas denied any connection to the attack.
In response to 'Israeli' actions, Hamas canceled the planned handover of an 'Israeli' captive’s body, which it had announced would occur on Tuesday.
The Gaza government media office reported that since the ceasefire’s implementation on October 10, 'Israel' has committed 125 violations, resulting in 94 Palestinians killed and 344 injured.
'Israeli' sources told the broadcaster that any 'Israeli' response to alleged Hamas violations must have US approval. “Any step taken in Gaza following Hamas violations must be approved by the United States,” an unnamed source said. “It was made clear during discussions at Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office.” The sources added that 'Israel' expects Washington to approve some, but not all, of the measures under consideration.
