Netanyahu orders Israeli forces to expand Gaza control to 70% as Lebanon conflict escalates

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the Israeli military to expand its control over the Gaza Strip to 70 percent. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, as Israeli forces push deeper into the territory. The announcement came during the Eid holiday, when Palestinians reported 10 people killed in strikes, drawing mourning and condemnation.

At the same time, the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon has intensified. Israeli forces have advanced north of the Litani River, and civilians in southern Lebanon are being hit hardest by the fighting. Netanyahu confirmed the military crossed the Litani River, turning large parts of southern Lebanon into a no-go zone for civilians. The twin escalations in Gaza and Lebanon are raising fears of a broader regional war.