Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday he has directed the IDF to increase its control of the Gaza Strip to 70%, a move that contradicts the ceasefire agreement brokered by former President Donald Trump in October 2025.
Speaking at a conference, Netanyahu stated the military currently controls 60% of the territory, up from 50%, with a new target of 70%. He said, "We're pressing them from all sides, we'll deal with the remnants."
Under the October ceasefire, the IDF had withdrawn to a demarcation line known as the "yellow line," with an agreed control of approximately 53%. Netanyahu’s announcement comes as indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, aimed at advancing the 20-point peace proposal requiring Hamas to disarm and Israeli troops to withdraw, remain deadlocked.
Since the ceasefire took effect, at least 738 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, which the UN considers reliable. The Israeli military continues strikes, targeting Hamas commanders and facilities.
Defense Minister Israel Katz reiterated Wednesday that Israel is committed to eliminating those responsible for the October 7, 2023 attack, and that Hamas will not rule Gaza. Far-right ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have publicly defended a "voluntary emigration" plan for Palestinians, which critics say amounts to forced displacement.