For the first time since 2000: a year without a single rocket from Gaza crossing the border

For the first time since 2000, a full year has been recorded without a single rocket attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip. The last successful launch occurred on October 7, 2025. However, the IDF warns that Hamas still has dozens or hundreds of rockets, launchers, and underground infrastructure, and the lull may be a temporary tactic.

For the first time since 2000, a full calendar year has been recorded without a single rocket attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip. The last successful rocket launch occurred on October 7, 2025 — the projectile fell in the community of Netiv HaAsara. On January 8, 2026, there was an unsuccessful launch that did not reach Israeli territory. However, the IDF warns that Hamas's rocket capabilities have been severely damaged but not eliminated. In June, the Air Force destroyed four launch positions ready for use. In December, five-barreled launchers with rockets were discovered, and in August, an underground tunnel with dozens of rockets was found. According to IDF estimates, Hamas still has dozens or hundreds of rockets. The main question is why Hamas is not using them. According to the military, the organization prefers to maintain the lull to avoid retaliatory strikes and regain control over the sector. Israel continues to search for and destroy remaining infrastructure: in August, five warehouses and a launch position were attacked, and in September, a militant from the Islamic Jihad rocket unit was eliminated.