IDF strikes Hamas commander in northern Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces conducted an airstrike in northern Gaza on Wednesday targeting a Hamas commander alleged to be planning attacks against troops in the region. The strike marked the first reported Israeli airstrike in Gaza in over a week.

The military stated it employed precision munitions and aerial surveillance to minimize civilian casualties.

"IDF troops under the Southern Command remain deployed in the area in accordance with the agreement and will continue to operate to remove any immediate threat," The military said.

Israel has reduced large-scale strikes in Gaza over the past week amid pressure from Washington to support a U.S. Peace proposal, according to Reuters. A source with knowledge of Israel's position told Reuters that the military was limiting operations to what it assessed as immediate threats and had stopped regular targeted killings.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a 15-point peace proposal on Sunday, stating Israel would not withdraw forces until Hamas is completely disarmed. Nickolay Mladenov, the international body's director-general for Gaza, clarified on Sunday that the roadmap does not require an IDF withdrawal from the Yellow Line until Hamas disarmament is verified "sector by sector" Under American oversight.

Mladenov denied reports Wednesday that a financial agreement had been reached with Hamas.

In a Hebrew post, Mladenov stated no such proposal had been discussed, negotiated or considered, and that the organization would have no role in Gaza governance or access to funds.

"Israel is not required to rely on trust or take irreversible steps before verified actions are taken on the ground," Mladenov wrote. "The goal remains the complete dismantling of weapons and ensuring that Gaza can never again pose the kind of threat Israel experienced on Oct. 7."

The statement followed a report that Hamas could receive up to $400 million in debt relief under the plan. Officials clarified the funds would not cover corruption, financial mismanagement or matters related to the organization's terrorist designation.