According to the Israeli Times, on June 2 local time, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio stated that Israels Prime Minister Netanyahus plan to have the military control 70% of the Gaza Strip contradicts U.S. positions.
On that day, during a hearing in the U.S. Congress, Delario, the Democratic leader of the House Appropriations Committee, asked Rubio about the U.S. governments stance on Netanyahus goal of gaining control over 70% of Gaza land in order to defeat Hamas.
Rubio responded that Netanyahus aforementioned territorial control plans were not included in President Trumps 20-point plan aimed at ending the conflict with Hamas. The core of this plan is to end Hamas rule in Gaza and promote post-war reconstruction in Gaza.
On June 2nd, local time, Rubio answered questions from lawmakers during a hearing held by the House Appropriations Committee. Associated Press
We have a plan, and the plan does not require such actions. Ultimately, the demands of the US, and in turn those of Israel, are to have Gaza governed by entities other than Hamas. said Rubio.
According to the first-phase ceasefire agreement that took effect in October 2025, Israel controls 53% of the Gaza Strip. On May 17 this year, Netanyahu said that Israel has been expanding its control over the Gaza Strip, now controlling 60% of the area. On May 28, Netanyahu stated that he had ordered an expansion of control to approximately 70%. Hamas accused this move of being a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement.
