Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on May 28, 2026, that he directed the military to expand its control of the Gaza Strip [1].
This directive signals a significant escalation in the ongoing military campaign. By increasing the territory under its direct authority, Israel is altering the operational landscape of the conflict and challenging existing ceasefire frameworks.
Netanyahu said that Israeli forces currently occupy approximately 60 percent [2] of the Gaza Strip. He has now ordered the military to increase that level of control to 70 percent [1] of the territory.
The move is part of a broader effort to expand Israeli control over the region as the military campaign continues [3]. The order comes amid reports that such an expansion may violate existing ceasefire deals [4].
Israeli forces are tasked with securing the additional territory to solidify the military's grip on the region. This shift in strategy focuses on a larger physical footprint within the strip to disrupt opposition, and maintain security oversight.
Netanyahu said the directive is necessary for the progression of the campaign. The military is now moving to implement the order to reach the 70 percent target [1].
“Netanyahu said he has directed the Israeli military to expand its control of the Gaza Strip to 70% of the territory.”
The move to increase territorial control from 60% to 70% suggests a shift from targeted operations toward a more comprehensive occupation of the Gaza Strip. This expansion likely complicates diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire, as it increases the number of Israeli personnel on the ground and expands the areas under direct military administration.
