IDF strikes Hamas terror cell, resuming preemptive strikes despite Trump's Gaza deal

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) conducted its second preemptive strike in two days against a Hamas terror cell in Khan Yunis on Thursday, marking a resumption of such operations since a late July US-Hamas deal. IDF sources indicated the cell was actively planning an operation against the military. While the IDF has refrained from targeting Hamas leadership or members involved in the October 7 invasion since the deal, it continues to strike operatives preparing attacks. This strategy allows the IDF to thwart attacks before they materialize, as direct arrests are not feasible in Hamas-controlled Gaza. The US did not condemn the recent strikes, which occurred despite earlier instructions to cease attacks on Gaza following the July deal. The deal was intended to initiate Hamas's disarmament process, which has not yet begun. The strikes may also be a response to Hamas's recent planning of a large-scale military drill.