Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the Israel Defence Forces to expand their operational control to cover 70% of the Gaza Strip, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The directive, communicated to senior military commanders on Monday, aims to dismantle remaining Hamas strongholds in southern and central Gaza, effectively partitioning the territory into a northern sector already under IDF control and a southern pocket under siege.
The announcement has drawn immediate international reaction, with the United Kingdom issuing a statement urging restraint in civilian zones. A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We recognise Israel's right to self-defence, but the scale of this operation risks catastrophic humanitarian consequences. We call on all parties to adhere to international law and ensure the protection of civilians."
The order comes after weeks of intense ground operations and aerial bombardments that have already displaced nearly 1.5 million people, according to UN estimates. The new seizure plan would bring key areas including Khan Younis and the outskirts of Rafah under direct military control, cutting off escape routes to Egypt. Netanyahu's office justified the move as necessary to eliminate remaining Hamas battalions and secure the release of hostages held since October 7.
Military analysts point out that achieving such territorial dominance would require sustained urban warfare and significant civilian casualties. The IDF has issued evacuation orders for several neighbourhoods, but humanitarian organisations warn that safe zones are insufficient. The World Health Organisation has recorded 14 near-total collapses of hospital services in the area over the past month.
The UK's call for restraint is seen as part of a broader diplomatic push by Western allies to prevent a full-scale humanitarian catastrophe. However, Downing Street has stopped short of calling for a ceasefire, maintaining its position that Israel has the right to respond to Hamas's attacks. The United States has not yet publicly commented on the latest developments.
The seizure operation is expected to take several weeks, with the IDF aiming to establish a security buffer zone along the border and control all major roads and crossings. Netanyahu's decision carries significant political risks domestically, where opposition leaders have criticised the lack of a clear post-war strategy, and internationally, where accusations of war crimes are mounting.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on the human cost. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that food, water, and medical supplies are critically low in areas under Israeli blockade. The coming days will test the limits of international diplomacy to avert a deeper crisis.
