IDF Controls 70% of Gaza as Hamas Delays Ceasefire and Rearms
Updated
Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Jun 23
IDF Controls 70% of Gaza as Hamas Delays Ceasefire and Rearms
3 articles · Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Jun 23
Summary
Israeli defense officials said the IDF now holds operational control over about 70% of Gaza and could expand that footprint in coming months.
The push is tied to Israeli assessments that Hamas is stalling ceasefire implementation, rebuilding forces, recruiting operatives and preparing for renewed war while refusing to disarm.
Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor's Southern Command is running three tracks: daily threat monitoring along the Yellow Line, expansion of Israeli control and defenses, and planning for a possible large-scale offensive centered on Gaza City.
Israeli forces are also widening security zones near border communities, building roads and positions, improving intelligence collection, and maintaining target lists tied to the October 7 massacre and hostage holding.
A parallel US-backed Rafah 'green city' plan would initially house about 50,000 screened Palestinians and could proceed even without Hamas disarmament or a multinational force.
Will the US-backed 'green city' in Rafah rebuild Palestinian lives or create a high-tech prison?
Is Israel's 'new border' in Gaza a security measure or the blueprint for permanent annexation?
Did Israel's destructive strategy defeat Hamas or simply create a more hostile and desperate future?
Gaza Strip 2026: Ceasefire Breakdown, 73,000 Fatalities, and the Collapse of Civilian Infrastructure
Overview
In late June 2026, the Israel Defense Forces expanded their control across major areas of Gaza, with military vehicles advancing through places like the Nuseirat refugee camp amid heavy gunfire and shelling. These actions directly violated previous ceasefire agreements and were part of Israel’s ongoing effort to dismantle Hamas leadership, highlighted by the targeted killings of top commanders. This escalation has worsened Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, causing massive civilian suffering and infrastructure destruction. The persistent conflict, lack of effective governance alternatives, and divided international response have left the region in a dangerous stalemate with little hope for peace.