Live Update 
From the Liveblog of
Friday, February 20, 2026
From the Liveblog of
Friday, February 20, 2026
IDF ‘strongly condemns’ settler activists, including MK, who illegally entered Gaza
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleEmanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
A handout photo shows Otzma Yehudit MK Limor Son Har-Melech and activists from the pro-settlement Nachala group inside the Gaza Strip, on February 19, 2026. (Nachala)
The IDF says it “strongly condemns” the settler activists who illegally crossed the border into the Gaza Strip last night, saying they put soldiers at risk.
According to the military, the civilians were “under continuous surveillance” during the incident.
Among the activists were far-right MK Limor Son Har-Melech and young children.
The IDF says troops operating in the area detained the activists, “safely returned them to Israeli territory,” and handed them over to the police for further questioning.
“The IDF strongly condemns the civilians that crossed into the Gaza Strip, endangering both themselves and the IDF troops operating in the area,” the army adds.
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
The Times of Israel Community.
JOIN THE TOI COMMUNITY
Already a member? Log in here