Overview

• Israeli forces have seized the Morag Corridor, a strategic area in southern Gaza, aiming to divide the enclave and increase pressure on Hamas to release hostages.
• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will escalate its military campaign until hostages are returned, with 24 of the 59 captives believed to still be alive, including an American.
• The Morag Corridor is likened to the Philadelphi Corridor along Gaza’s border with Egypt, designed to disrupt Hamas operations and create leverage for negotiations.
• Since October 2023, Israel has occupied nearly 20% of Gaza, forming buffer zones and intensifying military strikes following the collapse of a ceasefire in March 2025.
• The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with widespread displacement, resource shortages, and increased calls for international aid.