The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched airstrikes and artillery shelling in Rafah, southern Gaza, earlier today, October 19th, 2025, after Palestinian operatives fired RPGs and conducted sniper fire against Israeli forces operating east of the "Yellow Line." According to the IDF, these actions constitute a "blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement," and the military stated it "will respond forcefully." Over the past hour, senior Israeli officials indicated that preparations are underway to increase the rate of attacks in Gaza, signaling an expected escalation. Following an assessment of the situation with the Prime Minister, an Israeli official stated that the IDF is preparing a "set of attacks" against Hamas. This comes as the coalition and opposition in Israel are reportedly discussing the necessity of a sharp response against the militant group. Earlier today, a senior Hamas official in Qatar, Mohammed Nazal, reiterated that Hamas will not disarm and intends to maintain control over Gaza's security, characterizing the current ceasefire as merely a temporary "hudna" or pause to rebuild strength. This statement aligns with previous reports suggesting Hamas's intent to resume hostilities. In response to the ceasefire violations in Rafah, the IDF stated that fighter jets and artillery were used to "remove threats," destroying several tunnels and buildings where operatives were identified. The troops were reportedly operating on the eastern side of the "Yellow Line" to destroy terror infrastructure in accordance with the agreement when the attacks occurred. Separately, reports from a Hamas source indicated that a police force affiliated with the organization carried out a "security mission" targeting the hiding place of Popular Forces leader Yasser Abu Shib. However, Abu Shib later appeared in a live broadcast to demonstrate he was unharmed. Previous reports from this morning detailed that Israeli airstrikes in Rafah began between 7:35 AM and 8:35 AM UTC, following an anti-tank missile attack on an IDF engineering vehicle. The IDF had also reported eliminating two terrorists in the Jabaliya region who had penetrated beyond the 'yellow line'.
