Israel Expands Gaza Control to Over 70 Percent

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have expanded their territorial control of the Gaza Strip to over 70 percent, significantly exceeding the 53 percent limit established under an October 2025 ceasefire agreement. This military push follows a directive from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz to systematically surround Hamas and prevent the group from rearming. The expansion was prompted by Hamas's refusal to disarm as required by a 20-point peace plan proposed by Donald Trump.

As part of this strategy, Israel established a militarized orange zone running north to south, including the Al-Shuja'iyya neighborhood of Gaza City and areas in Beit Lahia. This zone has severely restricted humanitarian access, leading to the suspension of aid operations in northern Gaza. Residents report frequent tank shelling and gunfire, while the United Nations reports approximately 200 Palestinians were killed specifically near these shifting lines of control since the ceasefire.

Recent operations in Gaza City include drone and artillery strikes that killed at least four Palestinians, including strikes on a tent for displaced people. The Ministry of Health of Gaza reports that between 1,123 and 1,127 Palestinians have been killed in the territory since the ceasefire took effect. In response to these developments, Israeli officials maintain that the operation is necessary to eliminate senior commanders and neutralize threats from Hamas.