Jerusalem, May 29, 2026 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) currently control approximately 60% of the Gaza Strip and has directed the military to expand that control to 70% in a phased approach.
Speaking on May 28 at a conference in an Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank, Netanyahu described the move as part of an ongoing effort to “squeeze Hamas” and tighten Israel’s grip on the territory.
“We are now in 60% of the territory of the Gaza Strip. We were at 50%, we moved to 60%,” Netanyahu said. “My directive is to move to — take it step by step — first of all, 70. Let’s start with that.”
The remarks come amid a fragile U.S.-brokered ceasefire that took effect in October 2025. Under the agreement, Israeli forces were to withdraw to a demarcation known as the “yellow line,” which initially left Israel in control of roughly 53% of Gaza. However, reports indicate that Israeli forces have pushed beyond this line, with some IDF maps from late April 2026 showing control of around 64% of the territory.
Background and Context
The ceasefire was intended to halt major hostilities following the intense fighting that began in October 2023. It included provisions for hostage releases, phased Israeli withdrawals, and eventual Hamas disarmament. Progress on later phases has stalled, however, leading to continued tensions.
Israel justifies its expanded operations as necessary to prevent Hamas from rearming and regrouping. The Israeli government has carried out targeted strikes in Gaza since the ceasefire began, citing security threats. Palestinian health authorities report that these actions have resulted in hundreds of deaths in the territory.
Hamas has accused Israel of repeated ceasefire violations and attempting to impose new facts on the ground through military expansion. Critics, including humanitarian organizations, warn that further territorial control is forcing Gaza’s approximately 2.2 million residents into an increasingly cramped area along the coast, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the war-devastated enclave.
Reactions and Implications
Netanyahu’s announcement has drawn sharp criticism from Palestinian officials and some international observers, who view it as undermining the ceasefire and risking long-term division of Gaza. Supporters of Israel’s position argue that sustained pressure on Hamas is essential for Israeli security following the events of October 7, 2023.
The situation remains fluid, with the “yellow line” appearing to evolve from a temporary demarcation into a more entrenched boundary. Diplomatic efforts to advance the ceasefire agreement continue, but significant challenges persist on issues such as Hamas disarmament and the deployment of an international security force.
This development highlights the fragile nature of the current truce and the deep divisions that continue to shape the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Further updates are expected as the situation on the ground develops.
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