Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directing the Israel Defence Forces to expand their control to 70% of the strip. This escalation, confirmed by defence officials, marks a significant shift towards a permanent land seizure under the guise of security operations.
Satellite imagery analysed by multiple monitoring groups reveals a network of new military outposts and buffer zones that now cover vast swathes of agricultural land and residential areas. The expansion, which began in earnest 48 hours ago, has displaced an estimated 200,000 civilians, according to UNRWA. Many are fleeing into ever shrinking safe zones, some no larger than a few city blocks.
Defence analysts view this as a deliberate strategy to fragment remaining Palestinian territory. The IDF claims the operation targets Hamas infrastructure, including tunnel networks and rocket launch sites. However, the scale of the takeover suggests a broader objective of permanent territorial control. Former US State Department official Dr. Aaron Miller described this as "the most aggressive land grab since 1967."
International reaction has been swift. The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session, though a resolution is unlikely due to expected US veto. The European Union condemned the expansion as a violation of international humanitarian law. Meanwhile, regional powers including Egypt and Saudi Arabia, which had been moving towards normalisation with Israel, have paused diplomatic engagements.
On the ground, the human cost is mounting. Medical facilities in remaining Palestinian zones are overwhelmed, with chronic shortages of fuel, water, and medical supplies. The World Health Organisation has documented a 300% increase in trauma injuries since the expansion began. Food distribution has all but collapsed, with WFP convoys unable to reach designated areas.
Despite the tightening grip, ground conditions remain volatile. Armed resistance has risen by 40% in the past week, and IED attacks on Israeli patrols have become routine. The IDF has lost 12 soldiers in the last 72 hours. The conflict shows no sign of de-escalation, with Netanyahu politically strengthened by his coalition's far-right allies demanding even harsher measures.
This report is based on verified field sources and satellite data. We will continue to monitor the situation as it develops.
