IDF Constructs Massive Earth Barrier Dividing Gaza Strip in Two

Satellite images reveal that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been building a large earth barrier that splits the Gaza Strip into two parts. According to an Associated Press report published on July 21, 2026, the barrier stretches over 23 kilometers and separates the area under Israeli control from the parts inhabited by Gazans. The IDF confirmed the construction to AP, emphasizing that it is located along the "yellow line" as part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, but declined to specify how much longer the barrier will extend.

The earth barrier has been constructed quietly and rapidly over recent months, with satellite images showing its length growing from about 500 meters on July 1 to 2.4 kilometers ten days later. The barrier runs from the Rafah area in the south to Al-Mawasi, where displaced Gazans live in tent camps. If construction continues at the current pace, the barrier could eventually connect a 17-kilometer stretch from Khan Yunis to Gaza City in the north. The southern section began construction in February and remains under development. The exact height of the barrier is unclear from the images.

Alongside the earth barrier, the IDF has established a security zone equipped with intelligence and technological assets around the yellow line. The barrier physically divides the Gaza Strip, with Israeli-controlled territory comprising roughly half of the area.

Meanwhile, the IDF and Shin Bet continue operations in Gaza targeting Hamas militants. On the morning of the report, the IDF announced the killing of Adham Ibrahim Shaaban Nesman, head of operations for Hamas’s Gaza City Brigade. Nesman was responsible for directing the October 7 attacks into Israel and held many Israeli hostages, including Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and others. He was also involved in training militants and facilitating weapons production despite the ceasefire agreement. Emily Damari, a former hostage, commented on Nesman’s death on Instagram, describing him as a serious and dangerous figure during her captivity.

The construction of the earth barrier and ongoing counterterrorism operations highlight the continuing security challenges and tensions in the Gaza Strip despite the ceasefire framework.