Hamas attack portfolios seized: The alarming threat to Judea and Samaria revealed

Defense Minister Reveals Hamas Plans to Attack Jewish Communities in Judea and Samaria

Katz's disclosure highlights the ongoing threat from the terrorist group, which continues to plan attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers, even during times of relative calm.

The term "seam line" refers to areas along the 1948 borders of Israel that, after the Six-Day War in 1967, were no longer part of Israel but were incorporated into the territories under Israeli control, such as Judea, Samaria, and Jerusalem. Katz emphasized that these areas remain a focal point for Hamas' operations. At a conference of regional councils, the Defense Minister confirmed that intelligence had revealed Hamas' intentions to strike both military and civilian targets during the ceasefire, underlining the persistence of these terrorist threats.

Katz also provided insights into the strategic importance of the Philadelphi Corridor, a vital strip of land that runs along the border between Egypt and Gaza. He made it clear that Israel would not abandon this area, calling it a crucial buffer zone that ensures security along the Gaza-Egypt border. Katz mentioned that some Hamas tunnels that had penetrated this area were closed, while others remained active. He underscored the importance of maintaining control over the corridor, especially as a deterrent to smuggling and terrorist activity.

The YESHA Council, which represents Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria, responded to Katz's announcement with concern. The Council called the discovery of Hamas' attack plans a "serious warning signal" and emphasized the urgency of preventing a repeat of the October 7 massacre. They noted that the terrorist threat against towns in Judea, Samaria, and the seam line is not theoretical but an immediate danger.

In response to the growing threat, the YESHA Council called for a strong and decisive policy to counter terrorism in these regions. They voiced their support for Defense Minister Katz’s offensive approach and urged that the settlements in Judea and Samaria be viewed as a protective wall for Israel’s security. The Council also emphasized that the application of sovereignty over these areas would be a critical step in ensuring long-term stability and safety for both the residents of the region and the entire State of Israel.

Earlier reports suggested that the Philadelphi Corridor might be included in a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, but Israeli officials have firmly stated that they will not withdraw from this strategic zone. A senior Israeli source confirmed that Israel would not allow Hamas to rebuild its operations or smuggle weapons along this critical border area.

"We won't leave the Philadelphi Corridor," the source reiterated. "We won't let Hamas rebuild itself through smuggling and will ensure that no terrorists can once again freely move weapons along our border."