Israel expands control beyond ceasefire limits, pushing Gaza residents toward the sea

Following the ceasefire signed last October, Israel pledged to withdraw its troops behind a demarcation known as the “yellow line,” which would limit its presence to less than half of Gaza’s border area. Recent satellite analysis and on-the-ground reports show the army now controls over 60% of the territory, citing operational security as the reason for the shift. Residents describe waking up to new yellow cement blocks placed near their houses, prompting repeated moves and heightened anxiety as families are squeezed toward the Mediterranean coast.

The Israeli Defence Forces describe the markings and a newly constructed 23-kilometre dirt berm as defensive steps intended to stop infiltrations and protect both troops and nearby Israeli communities. Meanwhile, fortified Israeli compounds have been erected well inside Gaza, and extensive demolition of residential structures has been documented since the conflict’s pause. UN figures put Palestinian deaths since the ceasefire at more than 1,200, contributing to a total death toll exceeding 70,000 since the war began in October 2023.