Israel's March Plans: A New Gaza City Operation on the Horizon

In March, Israel might launch a fresh military campaign in Gaza, focusing on Gaza City. This operation aims to shift the Yellow Line, the ceasefire boundary, closer to the coast, giving Israel more control over the region. However, this plan needs approval from the United States, which is currently working on a fragile ceasefire agreement. The ceasefire, reached in October, has two phases. The first phase saw Israeli forces pull back to the Yellow Line, controlling about 53% of the Strip. The second phase, which includes disarming Hamas, is where things get tricky. Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, isn't convinced this will happen and has ordered the military to prepare for a possible operation in March.Erez Winner, a research fellow, believes that a new offensive would be easier now. With all living hostages and most hostage remains returned, Israel no longer has to worry about their safety. Also, many Palestinians are living in tents, making evacuation simpler. Winner thinks a new round of fighting could be quicker and easier than expected, using existing plans adjusted to the current situation. Since the ceasefire, Israel has been targeting what it calls terror operatives who have breached the agreement. On a recent Saturday, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported killing three operatives in separate incidents. These operatives had crossed the Yellow Line and approached Israeli troops, posing an immediate threat, according to the military. The IDF's Southern Command forces remain deployed in the area, following the ceasefire terms. They are ready to act against any immediate threats. Meanwhile, the world watches and waits to see if the March operation will go ahead and what impact it will have on the region.