Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) troops recently discovered over 110 mortar shells, multiple rockets, and additional weapons hidden inside blankets and UNRWA-branded humanitarian aid bags near the Yellow Line, east of Gaza. The find comes shortly after a fragile ceasefire, highlighting ongoing challenges in preventing terrorist rearmament in the region.  

Video footage released by the IDF shows soldiers unpacking green aid sacks and rolled blankets, revealing stacked munitions concealed beneath the guise of humanitarian supplies. Independent reporting by outlets including The Jerusalem Post and i24NEWS confirmed the discovery on February 3, 2026, emphasizing that militant groups continue to exploit humanitarian channels to smuggle weapons.  

The operation underscores the persistent security risks in Gaza, where terrorists use civilian cover to rearm and prepare for potential escalation despite ceasefire agreements. Israeli officials argue that strict oversight of aid deliveries is necessary to prevent further misuse and to ensure that humanitarian efforts are not exploited for violent purposes.  

This incident reinforces ongoing concerns about the dual-use of aid in conflict zones, highlighting the challenges faced by military and civilian authorities in distinguishing between genuine humanitarian support and covert arms transfers.