Israeli Defence Minister Yisrael Katz announced Saturday that he has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to continue demolitions in the portion of the Gaza Strip still under Israeli control, even as a ceasefire and hostage-exchange deal is in effect. ilkha.com+2Anadolu Ajansı+2
In a post on X, Katz said the army’s focus should be on destroying what he called “terror tunnels” in what he referred to as the “yellow zone” under Israeli control, while also protecting soldiers and nearby communities. ilkha.com+1
He added that Israel is working with U.S. officials—including the Vice President, Secretaries of State and Defense, and military commanders—on implementing the U.S.-backed plan for Gaza, which includes dismantling tunnels and disarming Hamas. ilkha.com+1
Katz described the mission as a “sacred and critical” one, linking the return of hostages and fallen soldiers to the progress of demilitarizing Gaza. Anadolu Ajansı
The ceasefire framework took effect on October 10 and covers the first phase of exchanges and Israeli withdrawal from parts of Gaza.
