The demarcation line separating Israeli and Palestinian-controlled territory in Gaza, established through a ceasefire agreement in October 2025, has been moved westward on multiple occasions over the past year, significantly altering the territorial division originally agreed upon.
According to United Nations figures, Israeli forces now control approximately 65 percent of Gaza, an increase from the 53 percent outlined in the initial agreement. Most recently, on October 11, Israeli forces repositioned the yellow concrete blocks marking the boundary in the Shujayea neighborhood of eastern Gaza City, further restricting Palestinian access to territory and forcing residents to evacuate once more.
Residents describe a pattern of repeated displacement tied to the line’s advancement. Mahmoud Harzeen, a 35-year-old father of 10, has relocated six times as the boundary has shifted, each move intended to maintain distance from the demarcation zone. Harzeen recounted spending only one night in his most recently pitched tent before being forced to move again. He and others living near the line report experiencing ongoing military activity during nighttime advances, including tank movements, troop deployments, and artillery fire.
Asma Ali, a 32-year-old mother of three, has relocated seven or eight times since the ceasefire began. Her family has alternated between temporary shelters, schools, and stays with relatives as the advancing line and associated military operations have repeatedly forced evacuations. Ali reported losing household possessions and essential items, including medical equipment her son requires.
Displaced Palestinians face significant obstacles in relocating to safer areas. Limited housing availability, unaffordable rental costs, and restricted transportation options have left families with few alternatives. Both residents expressed concerns about security and the psychological toll of repeated forced movements, with Ali describing nightly evacuations followed by morning returns to assess conditions, creating a cycle of uncertainty about long-term settlement possibilities.
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