IDF controls approx . 70 % of Gaza Strip , Southern Command prepares for next phase

What Happened

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has expanded its operational control to approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip, with defense officials indicating the area under Israeli control could grow further in the coming months. Southern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor is overseeing parallel efforts: addressing threats along the Yellow Line, expanding Israeli operational control and defensive infrastructure, and preparing for a possible future large-scale campaign against Hamas, while also shaping the Rafah area under a proposed US-backed 'green city' initiative. A security source told Walla that Hamas is allegedly delaying ceasefire implementation, entrenching itself, recruiting operatives, and preparing for renewed war. IDF and Shin Bet maintain a target list of individuals involved in the October 7 massacre, including hostage-holding accusations. Meanwhile, the US has issued infrastructure and construction tenders for the green city zone in Rafah, designed to host approximately 50,000 Palestinians who would undergo security screening, creating an area free of terrorist activity even without full Hamas disarmament or a multinational force.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

This development signals a shift toward long-term Israeli operational control and reshaping of Gaza's security and civilian landscape, even as ceasefire frameworks remain contested. The expansion of buffer zones, defensive infrastructure, and US-backed civilian resettlement projects could fundamentally alter the territorial and political dynamics in Gaza. The military's preparation for a large-scale offensive against Hamas—contingent on government approval—keeps open the prospect of major escalation. The initiative for a screened civilian zone without requiring full Hamas disarmament also introduces a potentially divisive model for post-conflict administration that may face opposition from Palestinians and international actors.

Watch For

Key developments include whether Hamas complies with ceasefire and disarmament demands, potentially triggering a renewed IDF offensive concentrated on Gaza City where many operatives are reported. Progress on the US-backed 'green city' tenders and its reception by Palestinian factions and regional mediators will be critical, as will any incidents along the Yellow Line that could provoke escalation. Additionally, watch for Israeli government decisions on authorizing a large-scale military campaign and for reactions from Egypt, Qatar, and the UN regarding the civilian zone and expanded Israeli control.