Israel now controls up to 70% of Gaza, Security Cabinet told amid expanded IDF offensive

Senior Israeli military officials have reported to the Security Cabinet that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) now control between 67% and 70% of the Gaza Strip. This significant territorial control represents an expansion beyond the approximately 53% of the territory initially designated for IDF presence under a previous hostage-release agreement, often referred to as the "Yellow Line."

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We are not allowing them to rearm or attack us, and we are also eliminating their senior commanders.

The escalation in operations is attributed by Israeli sources to Hamas's refusal to disarm as stipulated in a plan proposed by former President Trump. Amidst ongoing threats from the organization, the IDF has intensified its offensive to capture territory beyond the initial boundaries.

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My directive is to move to 70% control of the Gaza Strip.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly pushed for this increased control, instructing the IDF to expand its hold to 70% of Gaza. During a recent conference, Netanyahu indicated a step-by-step approach, stating, "We're at 60% right now. Let's do this step by step, first 70%... We'll start with that. We're closing in on them from every direction, and then we'll deal with what's left."

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We're at 60% right now. Let's do this step by step, first 70%. We'll start with that. We're closing in on them from every direction, and then we'll deal with what's left.