The Israel Defense Forces confirmed Sunday that an armed terrorist deliberately violated the U.S.-brokered ceasefire in southern Gaza, crossing a designated humanitarian corridor and opening fire on Israeli troops before being swiftly neutralized. No Israeli soldiers were injured. Infrared drone footage released by the IDF shows the attacker advancing past the clearly marked Yellow Line—an internationally recognized safety barrier intended to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid—before launching the unprovoked assault.

Israeli officials called the incident a direct and unmistakable breach of the ceasefire, accusing Hamas-linked militants of exploiting humanitarian routes to carry out acts of terror. The IDF published operational maps identifying the precise location near Rafah, underscoring the calculated nature of the attack and the ongoing security risks Israel faces even during internationally supported pauses in fighting.

This violation comes just weeks after the Biden-Trump joint diplomatic framework helped secure a temporary Gaza ceasefire in October 2025, a strategic effort that President Donald Trump strongly advocated to give Israel the operational space needed to dismantle Hamas leadership. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced that Israel eliminated five senior Hamas officials—including weapons chief Alaa Hadidi—following intelligence indicating renewed militant activity. Reports indicate more than 20 militants have been killed in related defensive strikes.

Israeli leaders reaffirmed that the nation remains committed to humanitarian responsibility and regional stability, but will not tolerate terrorist aggression thinly disguised as compliance with ceasefire agreements. Supporters of the Trump administration praised the IDF’s professionalism and restraint, noting that the swift and precise response prevented further violence and protected both Israeli forces and nearby civilians.

The latest incident serves as another reminder of why Israel must maintain full security authority on the ground. Even during ceasefires, terrorist organizations continue to seek opportunities to target Israeli personnel, evade accountability, and undermine peace efforts. As long as Hamas and its affiliates pursue violence over coexistence, Israel—and its unwavering allies—will continue to defend the Jewish state’s right to survive, protect its people, and uphold regional security.