Israel Ends Southern State of Emergency After Ceasefire, Hostage Release

Israel has lifted the state of emergency in its southern region, a measure that had been in place since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the decision, describing it as a reflection of a "new security reality" in the south, following a ceasefire and the release of hostages. The state of emergency had granted broad powers to restrict movement and close high-risk areas near Gaza, but it will now expire, marking the first time in over two years that no "special situation" is active in Israel. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized Israel's independence in defense and its commitment to dismantling Hamas's weapons and demilitarizing Gaza. Hamas, however, remains defiant, with senior officials stating they would only disarm if "the occupation ends," and claims of a proposed technocratic administration in Gaza were quickly dismissed by Fatah. Both Israel and the United States insist Hamas must be excluded from any future governance in Gaza, underscoring ongoing tensions despite the ceasefire.