Israel Expands Control in Gaza to 59% Since October 2025 Ceasefire

Since the ceasefire was established in the Gaza Strip in October 2025, the Israeli army has expanded its control over the territory from 53% to 59% and has established at least seven new outposts, The Wall Street Journal reported.

According to the newspaper, as it expands the territory under its control, the Israeli army continues to uncover underground tunnels belonging to the radical Palestinian movement Hamas and to demolish buildings in Gaza. At the same time, the Israeli military has also taken control of the Salah al-Din road, which runs from north to south in Gaza.

Israel is expanding its control over Gaza amid a lack of progress toward a peaceful settlement of the conflict in accordance with US President Donald Trump’s plan. The key issue remains the disarmament of Hamas forces, to which the movement has so far refused to agree. Commenting on reports of the expansion of Israeli-controlled territory in Gaza, a Board of Peace spokesperson called on both sides to fulfill their obligations under the peace plan. Specifically, they referred to the roadmap for a settlement presented last week, which calls for the gradual transfer of weapons to a special Palestinian body under international supervision.

On October 9, 2025, with the mediation of Egypt, Qatar, the US, and Turkey, Israel and Hamas agreed to implement the first phase of the US president’s peace plan. The following day, a ceasefire took effect in the Gaza Strip. In accordance with the agreement, Israeli troops withdrew to the so-called "yellow line," retaining control over more than 50% of the Gaza Strip’s territory.

On January 22, representatives from 19 countries signed the Charter of the Board of Peace, which was established as part of the Gaza Strip peace settlement. Washington officials stated that other countries have joined the organization as well. The Board of Peace was established in accordance with an agreement between Israel and Hamas to govern Gaza; however, it is also expected to engage in conflict prevention and resolution in other regions.