Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu orders military seizure of 70% of Gaza

Israeli Forces Expand Control Over Gaza Territory

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the Israeli military to increase its control over the Gaza Strip to 70 percent, according to remarks made by the prime minister. The current level of control is approximately 60 percent, with the remaining territory falling within the “Yellow Line” demarcation area agreed upon in a US-brokered ceasefire in October 2025.

The Israeli military had previously expanded its control beyond this line, with maps sent to aid organizations showing an additional 11 percent of territory under their control. This expansion has been ongoing since mid-March.

The Gaza Strip remains a densely populated and impoverished region, with Palestinians facing significant challenges due to the Israeli occupation. The area is divided into three zones: areas controlled by Israel, areas within the “Yellow Line,” and areas under Palestinian control.

According to recent reports, health authorities have confirmed an Israeli air raid that resulted in at least 10 fatalities and 20 injuries. The United Nations Office for Humanitarian Affairs has reported a critical humanitarian situation in Gaza, with displaced families living in overcrowded conditions and scarce access to clean water.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in over 72,775 Palestinian deaths since the start of the war in October 2023. The Israeli military continues to maintain a strict security regime, and ongoing violence has led to concerns about the deteriorating situation in Gaza.

Source: Al Jazeera