Netanyahu Vows to Eliminate Remaining Hamas Pockets in Rafah and Khan Younis Amidst Fragile Ceasefire

Netanyahu's Firm Stance on Hamas Pockets

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday, November 2, 2025, during a weekly cabinet meeting, that Israel is committed to eliminating the two remaining Hamas pockets within Israeli-controlled areas of the Gaza Strip. These strongholds are identified as being in Rafah and Khan Younis. Netanyahu unequivocally stated, 'They will be eliminated.'

The Prime Minister's declaration underscored Israel's resolve, with him asserting, 'We report to our American friends, but we do not seek their permission.' He also accused Hamas of 'attempts to deceive us, the US, and the world,' labeling their tactics as 'pathetic.' Netanyahu reiterated Israel's commitment to securing the return of all hostages and ensuring the complete demilitarization of Gaza.

Context of Ongoing Conflict and Ceasefire

Netanyahu's statement arrives during a period marked by a fragile ceasefire, which officially took effect on October 10, 2025, following a multi-phase peace plan. This truce has been tested by recent events, including the return of the remains of three deceased hostages by Hamas on November 2, 2025. The exchange of remains has been a central component of the initial phase of the US-brokered ceasefire.

Despite the ceasefire, military activities have persisted in the southern Gaza Strip. On October 28, 2025, an Israeli soldier was killed in the Rafah area, prompting retaliatory Israeli airstrikes. Furthermore, Israeli forces conducted demolition and shelling operations in Khan Younis and Rafah on November 2, 2025, even amidst the ongoing ceasefire.

Military Operations and Hamas Status

The Israeli military has been engaged in systematic efforts to degrade Hamas forces across central and southern Gaza since December 2023 and May 2024, with significant operations around Khan Younis and Rafah. A renewed campaign, dubbed Operation Gideon's Chariots, commenced in May 2025, specifically targeting remaining Hamas forces. This included a major engagement in Khan Younis from May 26 to October 10, 2025, which concluded with a ceasefire and a partial Israeli withdrawal from the city.

Reports indicate that Hamas fighters are now largely operating as individuals or in small cells, a shift from their previous larger formations. Notably, Yahya Sinwar, the former Hamas leader in Gaza, was reportedly killed in Rafah in October 2024. Netanyahu's address also included warnings to other regional actors, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi forces in Yemen, signaling a broader security posture for Israel.

Future Implications

The Prime Minister's vow to eliminate the remaining Hamas pockets underscores the continued Israeli objective of dismantling the militant group's capabilities. This commitment is set against a backdrop of complex regional dynamics, a fragile ceasefire, and ongoing humanitarian concerns in Gaza. The stated goal of disarming Hamas and demilitarizing the Gaza Strip remains a guiding principle for Israel, with Netanyahu indicating that if one approach fails, another will be pursued.