Netanyahu Orders Expansion of Israeli Control in Gaza

On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a directive for the Israeli military to increase its control of the Gaza Strip from approximately 60% to 70%. This announcement was made during a broadcast on Israeli media, specifically Channel 12.

Netanyahu's directive comes amid escalating concerns regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where around two million Palestinians are currently living under dire conditions, facing repeated displacement due to ongoing conflict. Reports indicate that Israeli control of the territory has steadily grown beyond the boundaries outlined in a ceasefire agreement reached in October 2025.

Despite a ceasefire, military operations continue, with recent airstrikes resulting in the deaths of at least ten individuals, including four children. Humanitarian organizations have warned of severe shortages of clean water, inadequate sanitation, and food insecurity, exacerbated by the ongoing military actions.

Netanyahu's latest directive is expected to attract increased international scrutiny and complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at sustaining a ceasefire and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.