GAZA STRIP — The IDF has expanded its operational control to approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip. Southern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor is overseeing efforts to address threats along the Yellow Line and prepare for a possible future campaign against Hamas.

Southern Command is shaping the Rafah area under a proposed US-backed "green city" initiative. Defense officials stated that the area under Israeli control could expand further in the coming months. A security source added that "It is possible that the scope of operational control in Palestinian territory will increase in the coming months, while Hamas is allegedly dragging its feet, entrenching itself in the field, recruiting operatives, and preparing for war with Israel."

The Southern Command conducts daily assessments along the Yellow Line and in other parts of the Gaza Strip. This assessment effort combines intelligence from IDF Military Intelligence and the Shin Bet to identify emerging threats and coordinate operational responses. The IDF is expanding security zones near Israeli communities adjacent to Gaza.

Forces are building new routes and paving roads. They are also upgrading positions facing the Yellow Line, improving intelligence-gathering capabilities, and reinforcing the area with regular and reserve troops. Officials stated that Hamas has continued to challenge Israeli forces in the area and has not complied with demands to disarm. Defense officials added that if Hamas refuses to disarm and demilitarize, the IDF could launch a new offensive subject to government approval.

Officials believe many Hamas operatives and commanders remain concentrated in Gaza City. The IDF and Shin Bet maintain a list of targets who were directly or indirectly involved in the October 7 massacre, including individuals accused of participating in the holding of hostages. The United States has issued infrastructure and construction tenders connected to the proposed "green city" project in Rafah. The initial phase of the plan would provide facilities for approximately 50,000 Palestinians who would undergo security screening before being allowed to reside in the zone.