Gaza Dozens of families displaced again as the yellow line expands

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported several airstrikes, shelling, and gunfire in populated areas of Gaza over the weekend.

OCHA stated that an airstrike hit a UN-run schoolyard in Jabalia refugee camp on Friday, which was being used to shelter displaced families, causing minor damage.

Also on Friday, in eastern Gaza City, dozens of families were displaced after Israeli forces placed yellow concrete blocks, indicating a further westward expansion of the so-called “yellow line.”

This line, established in October 2015, marks the area within the Gaza Strip where Israeli forces restrict access. It has been expanded several times through the placement of these yellow blocks. Human rights workers have warned that Israeli forces have killed Palestinians simply for approaching this line.

Over the weekend, people who remained near the area told OCHA that the insecurity was increasing the pressure on them to flee once again.

Humanitarian partners reported that many newly displaced families left without their tents or belongings. Some are now staying with relatives and friends.