The hunt continues, infrastructure will collapse: The IDF's new plan in Gaza

First publication: According to a senior security official, the Southern Command, the Ground Forces, and the Technology and Logistics Directorate are preparing to expand operational control in the Gaza Strip through engineering activities. The goal of this broad initiative is to collapse Hamas terror tunnel systems that have not yet been addressed by IDF forces.

Data recently presented to Minister of Defense Israel Katz reflects a high rate of destruction and efficiency in neutralizing Hamas tunnels, alongside the deployment of capabilities that warn against the digging of new tunnels or the restoration of existing ones in the 'yellow line' area under IDF operational control.

According to the Minister of Defense's policy and IDF planning, regardless of the Security Cabinet's approval for the entry of 200 multinational force soldiers into Rafah, a large volume of heavy engineering equipment will be integrated into the operation. The goal for the coming year is to incorporate as many IDF engineering equipment operators and vehicles as possible, rather than relying on civilian companies.

According to the security source, the IDF has intelligence on offensive and combat-critical tunnels that the Southern Command insists on addressing to deprive the terror organization of underground capabilities built over many years with significant financial investment.

Meanwhile, the manhunt continues for commanders of the Hamas military wing and Nukhba operatives who crossed the border on October 7, including those currently working to rehabilitate the military wing. Simultaneously, a major effort is being conducted by the Naval Intelligence Division in coordination with Aman and the Shin Bet to thwart the rehabilitation of the naval Nukhba unit, which could otherwise return to operational readiness and threaten Israel and its strategic facilities.