Israel accused of expanding Gaza 'yellow zone' despite ceasefire

Palestinian authorities in Gaza have accused the Israeli military of violating the current ceasefire by expanding a designated restricted area in eastern Gaza City, a move they say has trapped numerous Palestinian families. The government media office stated on Thursday that this expansion involved pushing the boundary markers of the so-called "yellow zone" approximately 300 meters further into the neighborhoods of Ash-Shaaf, An-Nazzaz, and Baghdad Street.

Families Reportedly Trapped

The reported advance of Israeli tanks into these civilian areas has left dozens of families cut off and unable to flee, according to the statement from Gaza. The media office expressed grave concern, noting that due to ongoing shelling, authorities "cannot determine the fate" of many of those who are trapped. This development occurred shortly after airstrikes in Gaza City and Khan Younis resulted in numerous casualties.

Pattern of Ceasefire Violations Cited

The Gaza government media office asserted that this is not an isolated incident, claiming that Israel has committed over 400 breaches of the ceasefire agreement since it took effect on October 10. They allege these violations have resulted in hundreds of Palestinian casualties. The "yellow line" is a key component of the current truce, representing the zone to which Israeli forces were supposed to withdraw, effectively dividing the Gaza Strip.

Call for Guarantor Action

In response to the alleged violation, the media office issued a direct appeal to the nations guaranteeing the ceasefire – Türkiye, the US, Egypt, and Qatar. It urged them to act immediately to stop what it termed "the ongoing crimes" and to ensure the urgent entry of essential humanitarian supplies, including food, medical aid, and materials for shelter and infrastructure. Israel had not issued a public comment on the allegations at the time of the report.