CAIRO
A poorly marked and shifting boundary in Gaza has become a deadly line for Palestinians, as Israeli troops fire on anyone who approaches or crosses the “yellow line” established in last October’s ceasefire.
Since the truce took effect, the Gaza Health Ministry reports at least 77 of the 447 Palestinians killed have been shot near the line, including 62 who crossed it.
Among the dead are teenagers and young children, according to an Associated Press review.
Palestinians living near the boundary describe living in constant fear. In some areas, the line is marked only by sporadic yellow barrels or concrete blocks; in others, it is entirely unmarked.
Analysis by residents and mapping experts indicates the Israeli military has unilaterally extended the line in certain places by nearly half a kilometer (0.3 miles), expanding its zone of control beyond the agreed-upon limits.
For those sheltering nearby, the vague and fluid demarcation turns simple movement into a lethal gamble, underscoring how the fragile ceasefire has failed to bring safety to Gaza’s civilians.
By James Kisoo
