Report: IDF Is Building a Massive Earthen Barrier That Could Split Gaza in Two

According to a report by the AP news agency, the IDF has been constructing a large-scale earthen barrier in recent months that cuts across the Gaza Strip. The move was carried out, according to the report, "quietly and quickly." Satellite images that were published indicate that more than 23 kilometers of the barrier have already been built, and it is intended to separate the area under Israeli control from the areas where Palestinians are staying.

According to the report, the barrier separates about 50% of the Strip’s territory that is under Israeli control from the areas populated by Gazans. The IDF confirmed to AP that the barrier was built in the area known as the "Yellow Line," as part of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. However, the military declined to say how much farther the barrier is expected to extend.

The report also said that alongside the earthen barrier, a "security zone" was established along the Yellow Line, equipped with intelligence assets and technological means.

Satellite images reviewed for the report indicate that the pace of progress on the project was especially fast. According to AP, on July 1, one section of the barrier was only about 500 meters long, but ten days later it had already reached about 2.4 kilometers in length.

The report further noted that the barrier also runs between the Rafah area and Muwasi, where tent camps were set up for displaced Palestinians. According to AP, "If construction continues in the current direction, the barrier will connect to its longest section — measuring 17 km — from Khan Younis to Gaza City in the northern Strip."

Analysis of the satellite images also shows that work on the southern section of the barrier began as early as February and is still ongoing. At the same time, the images show sections that are still not connected in the Gaza City area, near Beit Lahia. However, the report emphasized that "the height of the barrier is unclear."