Netanyahu Orders Army To Control 70% Of Gaza
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he has directed the military to expand its control over the Gaza Strip to 70%, marking a major escalation in the territory despite an existing ceasefire framework.
Netanyahu Gaza Control Directive
Speaking at a conference in an occupied West Bank settlement on Thursday, Netanyahu said Israel currently controls around 60% of Gaza’s territory. He said Israeli control had moved from 50% to 60%, and that his new directive was to expand it further to 70%.
Netanyahu said the move was aimed at increasing pressure on Hamas. He added that Israel was “squeezing” the group from all sides and would deal with what remained later.
Gaza Ceasefire Faces Fresh Pressure
The remarks have raised fresh concerns over the future of the Gaza ceasefire arrangement that has been in place since October 2025. Under the truce framework, Israeli control was initially expected to remain around the agreed ceasefire line, but reports indicate Israeli forces have gradually expanded beyond that position.
The planned expansion could further reduce the area available to Gaza’s civilian population, which is already facing severe humanitarian pressure after months of war, displacement and destruction.
Israel-Hamas Tensions Continue
The Gaza Strip continues to see violence, with Israel and Hamas accusing each other of violating the ceasefire. Israeli military operations, airstrikes and movement restrictions have continued in parts of the enclave.
Netanyahu’s comments are expected to deepen international concern over Gaza’s future, especially as negotiations on security, hostages, reconstruction and humanitarian access remain unresolved.
