Netanyahu confirms Israeli control over 60 percent of Gaza

On September 2, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited a military outpost near the 'Yellow Line' in the Gaza Strip, declaring that Israel has no intention of withdrawing from the areas it currently controls. Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces hold 60% of the enclave and are continuing operations to neutralize Hamas fighters, a goal he described as a day-to-day process. He was accompanied by high-ranking military officials, including Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, Southern Command head Yaniv Ashor, and 99th Division commander Elad Juri.

In a related development, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the government remains prepared to relocate Gaza’s population via sea and air if the United States authorizes the move. Katz suggested that such migration is necessary for a long-term solution to the conflict, claiming that discussions regarding the relocation plan initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump last year remain ongoing, despite previous public backlash. Reports indicate that Netanyahu has also ordered the military to expand control to 70% of the enclave, potentially exceeding the limits established by the October 2025 ceasefire agreement. The stated objective of these ongoing operations remains the total disarmament and demilitarization of the Gaza Strip to ensure it no longer poses a threat to Israel.