Netanyahu orders expansion of Israeli territorial control in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Thursday a directive for the Israeli military to increase its control over the Gaza Strip to 70%. Current estimates of Israeli military control over the territory vary, with reports citing figures between 60% and 64%. This directive deviates from the terms of an October 2025 US-brokered ceasefire agreement, which required Israeli forces to withdraw to a designated demarcation zone known as the yellow line. Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding disarmament and further troop movements remain stalled. Despite the ceasefire, ongoing military operations and air strikes have continued throughout the region. The Hamas-run health ministry reports that at least 738 Palestinians have been killed since the agreement began. Additionally, local hospital reports indicate that an Israeli strike in Gaza City on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of 10 people, including five children, with the Israeli military stating the operation targeted two Hamas members.