Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his decision to direct the military to seize 70% of Gaza’s territory. This statement was made during a conference in the occupied West Bank. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel is strengthening its control over Hamas.
Current Military Control in Gaza
According to Netanyahu, Israeli forces currently control 60% of the Gaza Strip, up from 50%. He indicated that the military’s next step will be to increase this to 70% gradually.
The Situation in Gaza
- Approximately 2 million Palestinians face a crisis as Israel expands its territory control.
- As of late April, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) provided maps to international aid organizations, showing a military hold on about 64% of Gaza.
- The ongoing tensions have raised fears of a permanent division of the region’s land.
Ceasefire Agreement Background
Under the October 2025 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, Israeli forces previously withdrew to a demarcation line, known as the “yellow line,” maintaining control over roughly 53% of Gaza. However, Hamas accused Israel of altering this line, claiming this action violates the ceasefire terms.
International Concerns
- Nickolay Mladenov, a Bulgarian diplomat overseeing the ceasefire’s implementation, warned of escalating tensions without progress.
- Continual Israeli airstrikes have resulted in over 850 fatalities in Gaza since the ceasefire began, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Public Health.
Ongoing Military Actions
Israel’s military actions have included targeted strikes resulting in the deaths of key Hamas leaders. This has drawn condemnation from Hamas, which continues to refuse disarmament, a crucial component of the ceasefire plan.
As progress toward a secure environment for Gaza remains elusive, Israel’s military presence in the region is becoming increasingly entrenched. Without an international security force or a clear withdrawal timeline, this dynamic poses severe risks for the future stability of Gaza.
