Israel maintains a fragile ceasefire with Hamas that has held for a year, but implementation of subsequent phases—including Hamas disarmament, full Israeli withdrawal to agreed lines, and a technocratic administration—remains stalled. Israeli forces have conducted targeted strikes and completed a four-month northern Gaza operation in mid-October 2026 that eliminated over 100 militants and destroyed tunnels before withdrawing one division, while continuing to fortify positions, build outposts, and expand control beyond the Yellow Line amid reports of Hamas efforts to rebuild capabilities. Upcoming Israeli elections at the end of October and stalled diplomatic efforts tied to the Board of Peace framework represent near-term factors that could influence decisions on any larger-scale ground maneuver.