The "yellow line" marks the zone from which Israeli troops have not withdrawn in the Palestinian enclave, as part of the ceasefire arrangements that took effect on October 10.

General Zamir said the military has assumed operational control over extensive parts of the Gaza Strip, adding that Israeli forces will remain in those areas. Zamir said the army will not allow Hamas to reestablish itself and is preparing for surprise attack scenarios. 

He said the mission will not be complete until the last deceased hostage in Gaza, Ran Gvili, a police officer, is brought home. Hamas has released all 20 remaining living hostages and the bodies of 27 deceased hostages, except Gvili.