The IDF announced overnight that its forces are currently concentrating on defensive operations, in line with directives issued following statements by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump at the White House. According to the statement, "All IDF capabilities will be directed to Southern Command to strengthen the defense of our forces."
In a special situation assessment led by the IDF chief of staff, commanders were told that "given the operational sensitivity, all units must remain highly alert and vigilant." Nevertheless, the army continues to encircle Gaza City, and there has been no pullback of forces so far. Troops have been told to open fire only when a direct threat is detected.
The meeting followed Hamas' response to Israel and a statement from the Prime Minister's Office declaring that, in light of that response, "Israel is preparing for the immediate implementation of the first phase of President Trump's plan for the swift release of all hostages."
Officials in Jerusalem acknowledge the extreme sensitivity of the current moment. Political sources said Hamas' reply was essentially evasive: while the terrorist organization announced its willingness to release all Israeli hostages, it also demanded to begin immediate negotiations through which it hopes to improve the terms in its favor.
Israel, on the other hand, insists on implementing Trump's outline exactly as agreed. In diplomatic circles, the prevailing assessment is that the key to advancing the plan lies in Qatar, the Gulf state that both hosts and protects Hamas leaders and is considered highly committed to the US president—especially after signing a new defense alliance with Washington earlier this week.
