Israel's Military Expansion in Gaza: Netanyahu's Directive Raises Concerns

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to expand military control over the Gaza Strip to 70%, a move that escalates tensions despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. This directive raises concerns about the future of the ceasefire agreement and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where civilian casualties and shortages of essential supplies are rampant. As regional instability grows, analysts warn that this military expansion could complicate negotiations and increase pressure on mediators. The situation remains critical as international organizations call for renewed dialogue to prevent further escalation.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 28, 2026, 22:38 IST

Netanyahu's Directive for Gaza Control

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military to increase its control over the Gaza Strip to 70 percent, marking a significant escalation amid a ceasefire framework facilitated by the United States with Hamas. During a conference in the occupied West Bank on Thursday, Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces currently oversee approximately 60 percent of Gaza and that he has instructed the military to raise that figure. “We are currently squeezing Hamas. We now control 60 percent of the territory in the strip… My directive is to move to 70 percent,” he remarked, as reported by various Israeli media outlets. An audience member suggested that Israel should aim for “100 percent” control of Gaza, to which Netanyahu responded, “We’re going in order. First 70 percent, we’ll start with that.”

Ceasefire Agreement Under Strain

This announcement appears to contradict the second phase of the ceasefire agreement that was brokered by the United States last year between Israel and Hamas. The initial phase reportedly led to the release of hostages held in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian detainees in Israeli custody. However, discussions regarding the second phase, which involves Hamas disarmament and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, have been stalled for several months. Netanyahu’s recent statements indicate that Israel may be preparing for a prolonged military presence in the region.

Increasing Regional Tensions

The directive comes at a time of heightened instability in the region, following recent confrontations involving Iran, Hezbollah, and US forces in the Middle East. Analysts suggest that Israel's expansion of territorial control in Gaza could complicate ceasefire negotiations and intensify pressure on regional mediators, including the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. Israel has consistently stated that its military operations aim to dismantle Hamas’ operational capabilities and prevent future attacks.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The ongoing conflict has severely impacted large areas of Gaza, raising significant humanitarian concerns regarding civilian casualties, displacement, and shortages of essential supplies such as food, fuel, and medical resources. International organizations and various governments around the world continue to urge both parties to resume negotiations and avert further escalation.