Israel Extends Controlled Zones to Cover Most of Gaza

New Israeli maps of the Gaza Strip have expanded restricted zones, with analysts saying Israel now controls more than 60% of the territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has himself described the figure as "more than half" of the strip.

The Israeli army has circulated the maps but has not made them public, according to humanitarian sources. The introduction of a so-called orange line, complementing the existing yellow truce line, has left thousands of displaced Palestinians in areas between the two lines, where borders are subject to change and security is uncertain.

The Israeli army says the zones are areas where humanitarian organizations must coordinate their movements to operate in a "complex operational environment". Humanitarian organizations warn, however, that the restrictions are slowing aid deliveries, with locals saying the borders change from day to day.

More than 800 Palestinians have died since the ceasefire, according to local health officials, many in areas close to the lines. Analysts warn that the expansion of controlled zones could have long-term consequences and further worsen conditions for civilians.

(reuters, mja)