Israel has extended its military-controlled buffer zone deeper into the Gaza Strip since the October ceasefire, moving yellow concrete markers westward and constructing extensive earth barriers, according to satellite analysis and Palestinian residents.
The ceasefire agreement initially established a demarcation—known as the Yellow Line—with Israel holding approximately 53% of Gaza’s territory. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently stated the military controls over 60%, with a directive to reach 70%. Concrete blocks marking the line have been relocated in several areas, including the central Salah al-Din road, where an Israeli flag now flies atop a 3-metre earth barrier.
Satellite imagery analyzed by experts shows Israel has built over 42 kilometres of embankments, covering 85% of the mapped Yellow Line. Sections extend significantly beyond the original ceasefire boundary—more than 1.5 kilometres near al-Mawasi and over 500 metres in Khan Younis. Tony Reeves, founder of MAIAR, estimated some embankments reach 7 metres in height.
Residents report repeated displacement orders. In July, dozens of families fled Zeitoun east of Gaza City under what they described as Israeli fire from vehicles and drones. Near Deir al-Balah, families were given two days’ notice before farmland and olive groves were razed beyond the line. Verified videos show yellow blocks placed more than 300 metres from the mapped boundary.
The Israeli military stated that its deployments are “operational measures taken to protect Israeli citizens and prevent Hamas from rebuilding its terror army.” The IDF said it is working to “clearly and visually mark” the Yellow Line and rejected claims it has been moved. It described the barrier network as part of a “defensive posture” including a security zone and physical barrier.
Hamas has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement, a claim an Israeli official rejected outright.
Satellite imagery also indicates Israel has established fourteen new military positions since October and demolished scores of buildings beyond the line to clear paths for barriers. Retired Brigadier General Assaf Orion of the INSS said the infrastructure suggests the IDF is preparing for a long-term stay. Dr. Andreas Krieg of King’s College London noted the Yellow Line is being transformed from a temporary withdrawal boundary into a “de facto internal border.”
Residents say the expanding zone is shrinking available land for Gaza’s population of over two million. “The Yellow Line keeps moving day by day,” said Abu Kamel Hamami, displaced in Gaza City, describing overcrowded conditions and constant relocation.