The European Commission proposed suspending free trade agreements with Israel and imposing sanctions on settlers and Hamas due to the war in Gaza, a move that currently lacks sufficient support among Union member states. The proposal was discussed by the Commissioner Council, led by President Wen Der Lane, who also stated that actions against Israel would be met with corresponding responses. This development comes as Israel continues its operations in Gaza City. Communications and internet services remain interrupted in parts of the city, affecting an estimated 400,000 displaced Palestinians. Reports from earlier today indicated Israeli forces advancing into the Rimal neighborhood and along Al-Rashid Road. Separately, Al Jazeera English reported that Israeli forces destroyed a 13th-century mosque in Gaza City's Tuffah neighborhood on September 17th. Meanwhile, analyses suggest Israel's current fighting methods in Gaza differ from previous operations, focusing on repetitive raids rather than prolonged occupation. This strategy has impacted Hamas's strong divisions, particularly in northern Gaza and Gaza City, though the group's core military force is understood to have survived and is attempting to recover. Reports also mention the emergence of anti-Hamas armed groups in Khan Yunis, including one near the Jordanian hospital, and unconfirmed reports of an armed militia in Shujaiya receiving families to create safe zones. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his stance on Qatar's neutrality and requested a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Earlier this morning, Netanyahu received an undisclosed envelope following a court hearing in Jerusalem. False alarms for suspected drone infiltration were reported in Be'er Ora, southern Israel, which the IDF attributed to false identification. Commentary from X user @gidonsaar suggested that actions against Israel would harm Europe and that Israel would respond accordingly. Analysis of the fighting methods in Gaza by @david_lisovtsev on X highlighted a shift in strategy, noting the challenges and outcomes of holding territory versus conducting raids, particularly in Rafah. Reports from @Philipp27960841 on X detailed the formation of new armed groups in Gaza operating against Hamas.
