Full Breakdown
Israeli Defense Minister Orders Continued Tunnel Demolitions Amid Ceasefire Agreement
10/27/2025, 6:40:45 AM
Continued Military Operations in Gaza
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz announced on Saturday that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will continue demolishing tunnels in the Gaza Strip as part of the ongoing ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement. Katz emphasized that the destruction of these tunnels is a central task in the areas of Gaza still under Israeli control, which he referred to as the "yellow zone." He stated, “I have instructed the IDF to prioritize the destruction of the tunnels... alongside protecting the soldiers and communities.” This directive aligns with discussions involving U.S. officials regarding the implementation of U.S. President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan, which aims to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities.
Objectives of the Demolition Campaign
Katz articulated that the primary objective of the military operations is the demilitarization of Gaza through the complete destruction of Hamas's tunnels, which he claims still number over 60% undestroyed. He described this mission as crucial for achieving victory against Hamas and highlighted the urgent moral responsibility to return all hostages and fallen soldiers to their families. “We will do everything to fulfill this sacred and critical mission,” he asserted.
Search Operations for Hostage Remains
In addition to tunnel demolitions, Israeli forces are conducting searches beyond the yellow line in Gaza to locate the remains of Israeli captives. Reports indicate that these searches are based on intelligence estimates suggesting the possibility of finding bodies in areas controlled by the IDF. Heavy engineering vehicles are expected to assist in these operations starting Sunday.
International Involvement and Humanitarian Concerns
The ceasefire agreement, which took effect on October 10, includes provisions for the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and plans for rebuilding Gaza. However, international health and human rights organizations have raised concerns regarding Israel's military actions in Gaza. The World Health Organization reported that Israel has targeted numerous hospitals since the onset of hostilities, with at least 32 hospitals and 53 primary health centers reportedly damaged or destroyed.
Criticism of Military Strategy
Critics of Israel's military strategy argue that the ongoing demolitions and military operations exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Human rights advocates have challenged the justifications provided by the Israeli government for its military actions, calling for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Demilitarising Gaza through the destruction of Hamas’s tunnels, alongside disarming Hamas, is, in my view, the most important strategic objective for achieving victory in Gaza,” — Yisrael Katz, Israeli Defense Minister
- “We will do everything to fulfill this sacred and critical mission.” — Yisrael Katz, Israeli Defense Minister
Conclusion
The situation in Gaza remains complex, with ongoing military operations by Israel amid a fragile ceasefire. The focus on tunnel demolitions and the search for hostages reflects the broader strategic objectives of the Israeli government, while also raising significant humanitarian concerns and criticisms from various international organizations.
