Israeli Chief of the General Staff, Eyal Zamir has announced that the so-called “yellow line” from U.S. President Donald Trump’s ceasefire proposal effectively constitutes a new Israeli border inside Gaza, confirming that the military intends to maintain its current forward positions and thereby enforce a long-term occupation over more than half of the territory. The declaration sharply contradicts commitments made in the October ceasefire agreement, igniting new uncertainty over the future governance and territorial integrity of Gaza.

Israel’s New “Yellow Line” Strategy Redefines Gaza’s Map

During a visit to reserve units stationed in northern Gaza, Israeli Chief of the General Staff Eyal Zamir told soldiers that the “yellow line” introduced in Trump’s 20-point ceasefire outline now serves as an “advanced defensive belt and operational boundary” for Israeli communities. He emphasised that the army intends to stay in its current positions — positions that give Israel control over most farmland, major approach routes and the Egypt–Gaza border crossing.

Zamir insisted the army holds “broad operational control over large sections of the Gaza Strip” and will continue to remain on these defensive lines indefinitely.

Contradiction With the Ceasefire Agreement

Zamir’s stance stands at odds with the October ceasefire deal, under which Israel pledged not to occupy, annex or permanently station forces inside Gaza. The agreement requires Israel to withdraw completely, aside from a narrow security perimeter, and gradually hand authority to a new international force.

Israeli government spokespersons refrained from clarifying whether Zamir’s statements reflect official policy. One senior official said forces were positioned “in accordance with the ceasefire draft,” while simultaneously accusing Hamas of violating the truce.

Plans for Long-Term Zones Inside Gaza

According to documents obtained by The Guardian newspaper, that Gaza could be split into two major zones:

• A “green zone” under Israeli and international military oversight, where reconstruction would eventually begin.
• A “red zone” that would remain uninhabitable for an indefinite period.

A U.S. official familiar with the discussions told reporters that the idea of reunifying Gaza in the near future is “a fantasy,” suggesting Washington anticipates a prolonged de facto partition along the “yellow line.”

Uncertain Path for the New International Security Force

The current ceasefire framework ties Israel’s withdrawal to the disarmament of Hamas, yet offers no detailed mechanism or timetable. Although the UN recently approved the creation of an international security force, no country has yet pledged troops.

Some states — including Türkiye — say they are considering participation but insist on clear mandates to prevent the force from turning into a tool “executing Tel Aviv’s objectives.” Experts warn that ambiguities surrounding Hamas’s disarmament make many governments wary of committing soldiers without guarantees.

Escalating Doubts About Feasibility

The widening gap between Israel’s commitments and its actions fuels deep concern over the viability of the ceasefire plan. Despite agreeing to withdraw, Israel has continued military operations in Gaza and has largely failed to pull back its forces. Persistent strikes on civilian areas and the refusal to vacate forward positions raise fears that the “yellow line” may evolve into a permanent partition imposed by force.,