Israeli Counter-Terrorism Force Clashes with Faction in Baghdad, Oil Smugglers Arrested

Israeli forces have demonstrably expanded their control within Gaza, moving beyond the initial "yellow line" and solidifying their presence deeper into the territory. This expansion, which began following remarks by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about increasing control to 70% of Gaza, is now a tangible reality on the ground.

Defense Minister Israel Katz reported that 83% of tunnels located behind the "yellow line" have been destroyed. He further stressed that Israeli forces intend to maintain their presence within the established security zone in Gaza and will not withdraw. This assertion comes as the war approaches its 1,000th day since October 7, 2023.

Field sources indicate that Israeli ground operations have reached nearly all parts of Gaza. Significant advances have been made in Khan Younis in the south, and areas in central Gaza including Deir al-Balah, al-Masdar, and al-Maghazi. Northern Gaza has also seen operations in Jabalia camp and al-Atatra, as well as neighborhoods in Gaza City like Shujaiyya and Tuffah. These operations are characterized by artillery shelling, fire from military vehicles, and drone support, aimed at securing advancing forces.

The expansion of the "yellow line," initially established under the October 2025 ceasefire agreement, has resulted in Israel securing full control over areas extending 4 to 6 kilometers from Salah al-Din Street to the pre-October 7, 2023, border lines. Movement along Salah al-Din Street has been halted, with coastal al-Rashid Street now serving as the sole remaining route connecting northern Gaza with the central and southern parts of the enclave.

In central Gaza, the "yellow line" was recently pushed eastward to within 3 meters of Salah al-Din Street, near the entrance to the territory's only power plant, which has been non-operational since the war began. This operation involved extensive demolitions and artillery shelling throughout the night and into Monday morning, with continuous drone fire providing cover for ground troops.

“

83% of tunnels behind the “yellow line” had been destroyed so far. He stressed that Israeli forces would not withdraw from the security zone in Gaza.