Israel Reports Progress in Hamas Tunnel Destruction Operations and Calls for Disarmament Under Multinational Force

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that "a U.S.-led multinational force will take charge of the disarmament and demilitarization of Hamas in the old city of Gaza," referring to areas still controlled by the group within the enclave.

This statement came as Katz reported on the progress of military operations, stating, "I have just been informed by the deputy chief of staff that the special operation to destroy Hamas tunnels in Gaza is proceeding well. The Israeli army is working to eliminate the tunnels through explosions or by filling them with liquid concrete in all areas under its control."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed during the government's session on Sunday that "Gaza will be disarmed, and Hamas will be stripped of its weapons either easily or with difficulty." He added, "I do not need any reinforcement, tweets, or conferences from anyone."

Netanyahu also reiterated Israel's firm opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state, stating, "Our opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state on any part of the land has not changed."

In this context, the U.S. administration continues its efforts to address the crisis of Hamas fighters trapped in tunnels in Rafah in the southern part of the enclave, as preparations are made for the transition to the second phase of the Gaza agreement, while Israel insists on not allowing the besieged to exit without announcing their surrender and handing over their weapons.