Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that "the IDF is currently completing the capture of the Netzarim corridor to the Gaza coast, dividing the Strip between north and south. This will tighten the encirclement around Gaza City, and all those leaving it southward will have to pass through IDF screening checkpoints." Katz added: "This is the last opportunity for residents who wish to move southward and leave Hamas terrorists isolated in Gaza City itself facing IDF operations, which continue at full force. Those who remain in Gaza will be terrorists and terrorism supporters."