Hamas Condemns Netanyahu's Plan to Seize 70% of Gaza, Warns of Escalation

Gaza: Hamas has condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's declaration to seize 70 percent of Gaza as an escalation of the war, warning of retaliation and raising fears of a fresh bloodbath in the territory. European nations and civilians in Gaza have also expressed alarm over the announcement.

Ismail al-Thawabta, head of the Hamas-controlled Gaza Government Media Office, said any attempt to impose a new occupation on Gaza was null and void and a violation of international law.

Israel has already expanded its control from the 53 percent stipulated behind the yellow line in the ceasefire agreement to approximately 64 percent. A further reduction in available land would place more than two million Gaza residents — already forced into an ever-shrinking strip of territory — under even more severe conditions.