Satellite images show that hundreds of buildings have been demolished, mostly through controlled explosions, and Israeli troops have been stationed at the site
Israel is creating a new military separation line in Gaza, separating the northern part of the strip, satellite images seen by BBC Verify appear to show.
As the BBC reports, troops control, and clear, an area across the width of northern Gaza. Satellite images and videos show that hundreds of buildings have been demolished between the Mediterranean Sea and Israel’s border, mostly through controlled explosions.
Images also show Israeli troops and vehicles stationed at the new separation. Analysts said the images suggested Gaza was being divided into zones to make it easier to control.
An IDF spokesman told the BBC it was “targeting terrorists and infrastructure” in northern Gaza.
Dr HA Hellyer, a Middle East security expert from the Rusi think tank, said satellite images suggested Israel was preparing to prevent Palestinian civilians from returning to the northern Gaza Strip. More than 100,000 people have already been displaced from northern Gaza, according to the UN.
The images appear to show two long stretches of road at either end of the lane connecting to cleared land through an urban area. The buildings have been demolished between the two sections of the road since early October.
This divide stretches approximately 5.6 miles (9 km) across Gaza from east to west and separates Gaza City and the towns of Jabalia, Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahia in northern Gaza.
The BBC has been told that there is a regular route between Jabalia and Gaza City, which is part of operational activities targeting Hamas in Jabalia.
Videos filmed by the Israeli military and posted online show several high-rise buildings being destroyed in controlled explosions since early October.
The chart below shows examples geolocated by BBC Verify along the new corridor.
An IDF spokesman told the BBC there was no intention to destroy civilian infrastructure “without being an operational necessity” to neutralize Hamas.
Other footage shows IDF Humvees being driven into the cleared area from the direction of Israel. These are not as heavily armored as other military vehicles – and Dr Hellyer told the BBC they would not be used if the army was not confident of their safety, indicating that Israeli troops control the area.
Source :Skai
With a wealth of experience honed over 4+ years in journalism, I bring a seasoned voice to the world of news. Currently, I work as a freelance writer and editor, always seeking new opportunities to tell compelling stories in the field of world news.
