Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that IDF forces are creating a new security corridor in southern Gaza, cutting off Rafah from the rest of the Strip. Dubbed a “second Philadelphi” route, this corridor aims to increase pressure on Hamas to release hostages.
The IDF has seized the Morag Corridor, which separates Rafah from Khan Younis. This follows Israel’s earlier reestablishment of the Netzarim Corridor, effectively dividing Gaza into isolated sections. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel is “shifting gears” and escalating pressure on Hamas.
As part of its renewed military campaign, the IDF deployed a third division to Gaza and carried out heavy airstrikes, hitting over 50 Hamas-related targets overnight. Palestinian sources report civilian casualties, including an alleged attack on a UN clinic in Jabalia. The IDF claimed the strike targeted a Hamas command center.
The escalation comes after Israel’s violation of a January ceasefire clause that required the withdrawal of IDF troops from the Philadelphi Corridor. Instead, Israeli forces have expanded their presence. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the operation aims to secure “extensive territory” and eliminate Hamas infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Hamas continues to hold 59 hostages, including at least 35 confirmed dead. Netanyahu warned that the military pressure will increase until all hostages are freed.
The IDF has issued new evacuation warnings, further restricting civilian movement. According to the UN, more than 60% of Gaza is now a “no-go” zone due to Israeli military orders.
With fighting intensifying, Israel insists that Hamas must be dismantled before any ceasefire is considered, while Hamas has rejected recent hostage exchange offers. The war, which reignited after a ceasefire collapsed in March, remains at a critical turning point.
