Israel builds earthen barrier through Gaza Strip

The Israeli army is rapidly constructing a significant earthen barrier bisecting the Gaza Strip, with approximately 23 kilometers already built. Satellite imagery reveals the scale of this new barrier, which stretches from the southern part of the territory towards Gaza City, effectively delineating the "yellow zone."

This "yellow zone" refers to an area from which Israeli forces withdrew following a ceasefire agreement in October 2025. According to Israeli military statements, the barrier's purpose is to prevent individuals from crossing between the Palestinian territories and to reduce "friction" and "damage to uninvolved persons." In the past, soldiers have fired upon individuals approaching this demarcation line.

The "yellow zone" encompasses roughly 53 percent of Gaza's landmass, confining the strip's two million Palestinian residents to the remaining 47 percent. Initially intended as a temporary measure, the zone's transformation is now evident. Analysis by AP indicates the barrier's construction is progressing swiftly, with two kilometers added in just two weeks during July.

Satellite images show that the Israeli army has demolished a majority of the buildings within the "yellow zone." Agricultural lands have been destroyed, and several towns reportedly leveled. This development occurs against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict, which began with the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, leading to a large-scale Israeli military offensive in Gaza.