IDF Will Not Obstruct Hamas Terrorists’ Return to Rafah if Disarmed

Amid growing tensions and political debate, the Israel Defense Forces will reportedly not block a potential agreement allowing approximately 200 Hamas terrorists to return to areas under Hamas control in Rafah, Gaza if they agree to disarm.

According to sources familiar with the matter, these Hamas operatives are currently in the buffer zone on the Israeli side of the Gaza Strip's Yellow Line, where the IDF has withdrawn following recent operational phases. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office clarified that no safe passage will be granted without complete disarmament of the terrorists.

“The Prime Minister continues his firm stance of disarming Hamas and demilitarizing the Strip while thwarting terrorist threats against our forces,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.

However, this potential policy has sparked outrage among key figures within the government. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called on Netanyahu to reject any deal, urging the IDF to eliminate or imprison the militants rather than allow them to flee. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich echoed the sentiment, calling the proposal “utter madness.”

The family of Chief Sgt. First Class (res.) Yona “Efi” Feldbaum, who was murdered by Hamas sniper fire in Rafah, also expressed strong opposition. “It is unthinkable to allow the vile terrorists, the murderers of our best sons, to go free,” they said in a public statement. “Efi's death was not in vain… We will stand as a wall to stop the madness.”

The internal debate underscores deeper divisions within Israel’s military and political leadership about the scope and nature of IDF operations in Gaza. Some senior military officials have urged caution in escalating conflict or intensifying operations, while others advocate a more aggressive stance to ensure long-term deterrence.

Though the IDF will not actively block the return of terrorists who disarm, officials emphasized that any final decision rests with Israel’s political leadership. The move could have significant diplomatic ramifications, especially concerning coordination with the United States and international partners involved in ceasefire and postwar arrangements.

Meanwhile, Hamas declared that securing a “safe exit” for their fighters from the buffer zone would mark a “victory recorded in the annals of glory,” framing the potential withdrawal as a political and psychological triumph.

The situation remains volatile, particularly in Rafah, where Hamas fighters reportedly continue to operate within underground tunnel networks in violation of the current ceasefire agreement. Since the ceasefire came into effect, three IDF soldiers have been killed in the area two by anti-tank missile fire, and one by sniper attack.

As talks between Israel and Hamas reportedly continue via mediators, the outcome of this possible disarmament-for-withdrawal deal could significantly affect the broader strategic trajectory of the conflict in Gaza.

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