Israel Defense Forces (IDF) personnel stationed near the «Yellow Line» in the Gaza Strip have been ordered to brace for potential increased fire from Hamas.
Army command fears sniper attacks and other assaults that could follow Israeli efforts to crack down on ceasefire violations.
Military estimates suggest Hamas could step up attacks on Israeli positions, framing them as a «response» to IDF actions in order to shift blame and portray Israel as the violator of the ceasefire agreement.
Military leadership emphasized that infantry units cross the «Yellow Line» strictly when ceasefire violations by Hamas militants are detected.
Activity Increases Near the «Yellow Line»
According to the Israeli side, Hamas activity has reportedly increased near the «Yellow Line». While previously it was mostly women and children approaching the area, armed militants have recently been observed. At least two such incidents have occurred in recent days.
On August 14, six armed Hamas operatives crossed the «Yellow Line» to steal IDF equipment. Fire was opened on the attackers; no reports of casualties among the militants were received.
On Saturday, two more members of the group attempted to infiltrate the Israeli rear to retrieve pipes. As a result, one was killed and the second was severely injured.
IDF Documenting Violations
Israeli troops received clear directives: respond immediately to any threat inside the «Yellow Line» and neutralize armed individuals posing a danger.
Meanwhile, Southern Command set conditions for strikes beyond the line of contact, the main priority being the prevention of civilian casualties.
Concurrently, the IDF is systematically documenting ceasefire violations by Hamas. According to the military, collected documentation is shared with the U.S. side and the Peace Council.
Documented incidents include movements of armed individuals, placement of explosive devices, attempts to cross the «Yellow Line», construction of barriers, and weapons manufacturing.
The «Ofek Israel» movement stated that Hamas is using the ongoing ceasefire to rebuild its terrorist infrastructure, calling for preventing the group from deploying new forces or weapons.
Source: 9tv.co.il
