Palestine Weekly Wrap: Israel Expands Gaza Control as Cairo Talks Begin
Israeli forces have continued expanding their presence deeper into Gaza as indirect negotiations involving Palestinian factions continue in Cairo, according to reports.
Despite an 8-month-old ceasefire agreement, fighting and destruction have continued across the enclave. Israel has reportedly extended its control using earth berms along the so-called “Yellow Line,” demolishing homes, farmland, and infrastructure across southern, central, and northern Gaza. Satellite analysis suggests Israeli forces are steadily pushing deeper, with estimates indicating control over up to 70 percent of the territory.
Gaza’s Health Ministry says recent Israeli strikes have killed hundreds of Palestinians since the ceasefire was declared on paper, with displaced families among the victims. Entire residential blocks in areas around Khan Younis and Gaza City have been destroyed in near-daily strikes.
Following renewed regional tensions, Gaza’s crossings were temporarily sealed before partial reopening was announced.
Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, Israeli settler violence, land seizures, and military raids have continued to rise, with reports of soldiers often present or involved during incidents.
Israeli authorities say some recent strikes targeted Hamas-linked figures, while Gaza officials report high civilian casualties, including entire families wiped out in air raids.
