Key facts
- Israel is expanding its control in Gaza by constructing new sand and earth barriers, displacing Palestinian families.
- These barriers are redrawing the post-ceasefire boundary, pushing deeper into Gaza and tightening the siege.
- Satellite imagery confirms the presence of walled enclosures across significant portions of the territory.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated a goal to increase military control over Gaza.
- Over 42km of barriers have been built since the ceasefire, effectively redrawing the boundary inside Gaza.
- New military positions have been established, and existing sites expanded.
Israel is reportedly expanding its control within the Gaza Strip by constructing new sand and earth barriers, effectively displacing Palestinian families and tightening the existing siege. Residents have reported waking to find concrete markers moved and Israeli flags raised over new fortifications, pushing the so-called yellow line deeper into the territory.
Satellite imagery has corroborated these accounts, showing extensive walled enclosures across Gaza. These barriers are preventing Palestinians from returning to their homes, many of which were destroyed during the conflict. Families are being forced to flee repeatedly as Israeli forces issue warnings and conduct strikes.
Under a US-brokered agreement from October, Israel was meant to retain control over 53% of Gaza. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated a directive to increase this figure, with reports suggesting military control now extends over 60% of the enclave. Since the ceasefire, Israel has constructed over 42km of barriers, covering approximately 85% of the yellow line, with some barriers extending significantly beyond the originally mapped boundaries.
These actions, including the razing of farmland and destruction of homes and greenhouses to clear routes for new barriers, suggest a prolonged occupation. Israel has also established 14 new military positions and expanded existing ones. The advancing boundary is forcing Palestinians into increasingly overcrowded areas where essential resources like shelter, food, water, and medical care are scarce.