Israel expands Gaza military zone, counters Hezbollah threats amid rising death toll

Israel has significantly expanded its military presence and control within the Gaza Strip, with regional reports indicating it now governs approximately 70% of the territory. This expansion includes the establishment of new military posts and the fortification of existing ones, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly confirming intentions to permanently control most of the enclave. These actions have continued despite a ceasefire agreement from October 2025.

Simultaneously, tensions remain high with Hezbollah. A US-mediated framework agreement for peace between Israel and Lebanon was signed on June 26, 2026, aiming to end months of conflict. However, Hezbollah's leader promptly rejected the deal, demanding an unconditional Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon and pledging to continue resistance. Israeli forces have continued to conduct strikes against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, even after the agreement, asserting their right to eliminate threats.

The ongoing conflicts have led to a rising death toll. In Gaza, the Palestinian death toll from the Israel-Hamas war has surpassed 73,000, with over 173,000 wounded since October 7, 2023. Over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed since the October 2025 ceasefire alone, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which also reports five Israeli soldiers killed during the same truce period.