Netanyahu reportedly open to Gaza plan, Israeli forces withdraw to Yellow Line

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly indicated a willingness to consider a Hamas disarmament plan, a development that comes as Israeli forces are said to be withdrawing to the "Yellow Line" in Gaza.

According to reports citing Axios, Netanyahu conveyed this openness during a conversation with Jared Kushner last week. The Jerusalem Post highlighted this potential shift against Netanyahu's public stance, while a senior U.S. official told Axios that the White House "is not concerned" by such statements, provided Israel limits its attacks in Gaza.

However, Hussam al-Astal, a commander of an Israeli-supported militia fighting Hamas in southern Gaza, voiced strong skepticism about the feasibility of the plan. "I do not believe the deal will go through. Hamas will not hand over the weapons in its possession," al-Astal stated to The Times of Israel. He believes Hamas would never accept a ceasefire that requires disarmament, as it would mean the end of their political power.

Al-Astal's militia operates with Israeli logistical and military support in the Khan Younis area. Despite periodic ceasefires, the militia has continued to engage Hamas fighters over the past year.

Meanwhile, separate reports indicate that Yemen's Houthi forces have targeted military and civilian sites, including power stations, with drones and missiles. Yemeni government forces reported downing 11 drones, while the Houthi-run Saba news agency claimed intercepted drones were aimed at a solar power plant supplying a port city. The Houthis stated their targets included Saudi troops and weapons depots in the port.