Israel declares military closed zone near Egypt border

Such a decision was made after an emergency meeting held by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz due to the growing threat from drones.

"We are declaring war — anyone who enters the restricted area will be harmed," Katz said.

The minister supported the position of Security Service chief David Zini regarding the need to recognize the smuggling of weapons using drones as terrorist activity.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will receive updated rules of engagement that provide for striking any unauthorized objects entering the closed zone, as well as drone operators and smugglers.

Additionally, the Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Israeli Air Force, will develop technological solutions to enhance drone control. The National Security Council will work on legislative changes, particularly concerning the licensing, purchase, and maintenance of drones.

Ceasefire between Israel and Hamas

As is known, at the beginning of October, US President Donald Trump presented a 20-point plan to end the war between Israel and Hamas, which includes the creation of an international Peace Council.

Shortly after, the parties began negotiations, and Trump announced the signing of the first phase of the plan. On October 10, 2025, a ceasefire was declared.

Under the agreement, Israel partially withdrew its troops, while Hamas released 20 hostages from the Gaza Strip.

Nine days later, fighting resumed: Israel carried out an airstrike on central Gaza after, according to the IDF, Hamas launched an attack in the Rafah area.

Trump warned that in the event of further killings in Gaza, the United States would support decisive action against Hamas.

The United States sent a draft UN Security Council resolution to establish an international force in Gaza for at least two years, which would be granted broad authority to manage the territory.