Jerusalem: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israeli forces now govern 60 percent of the Gaza Strip, suggesting an expansion of military presence beyond the boundaries set by an October ceasefire agreement.

This statement comes amidst escalating violence in Gaza and challenges to the fragile truce, which seeks a permanent resolution to the conflict.

In a speech marking Jerusalem Day, Netanyahu emphasized Israel's military capabilities and success in bringing back all hostages, adhering to one of the war's primary objectives.

He stated that while some initially called for withdrawal, Israel has chosen to assert control over an increasingly significant portion of Gaza.

The exact nature of this expanded control remains unclarified, with references to a new 'Orange Line' military position.

The ceasefire brokered by the United States, which went into effect in October, had envisioned Israeli forces withdrawing to a defined 'Yellow Line,' securing more than 50 percent of Gaza.

Netanyahu's declaration marks the first official acknowledgment of Israel's expanded presence, contradicting earlier expectations and international agreements.

This development is set against the backdrop of stalled negotiations with Hamas, aimed at achieving disarmament and gradual military withdrawal from Gaza.

Reports indicate that if Hamas resists disarmament, Israeli forces may resume hostilities.

Since the truce began, over 850 Palestinians have been reported killed, according to Gaza's health ministry, operating under Hamas control.

The United Nations corroborates these figures as reliable.

In contrast, the Israeli military reports five soldiers killed in Gaza during the same period.

The escalating tensions and Netanyahu's assertions reflect a complex geopolitical situation where the future of Gaza hangs in a delicate balance between ceasefire commitments and military assertiveness.