Egypt Daily News – In a new escalatory move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed the 5 reasons behind an Israeli plan to divide the Gaza Strip into isolated areas, announcing the establishment of what he calls the “Morag Axis” to separate Khan Yunis from Rafah in the southern part of the Gaza Strip. This announcement comes at a time when Gaza is experiencing increasing military escalation by the Israeli military.
Where is the “Moraj Axis” Located?
The “Morag Axis” that Netanyahu referred to is located in the southeastern part of the Gaza Strip, extending from the previously established “Philadelphi Route.” Israel intends to create a new military corridor that separates Gaza’s different regions, specifically Khan Yunis and Rafah, forming part of a broader strategic plan to tighten military control over the area.
Israeli Objectives Behind the Creation of the “Moraj Axis”
- Dividing Gaza and Tightening Military Control: The main goal behind this axis is to fragment the Gaza Strip into northern, central, and southern regions, thereby strengthening Israeli military control over the entire Gaza Strip. The occupation aims to isolate key areas within Gaza, making it easier to exert control over Palestinian land.
- Creating a Buffer Zone: As noted by Palestinian military expert Major General Habis Al-Sharouf, Israel seeks to turn Gaza into a “giant prison,” similar to other zones around the world. Plans suggest the creation of a buffer zone that separates Rafah from Khan Yunis, intensifying the occupation’s military presence on the ground.
- Supporting Israeli Settlements: Some analysts suggest that Israel may be preparing for the re-establishment of settlements within Gaza, particularly in strategically valuable areas. This includes the coastal strip from Rafah to Khan Yunis.
- Achieving Long-Term Economic Goals: There are speculations that Israel aims to launch new economic projects, such as the Ben Gurion Canal, which Netanyahu has discussed previously. These projects would require Israeli control over land in the northwest of Gaza.
Military Occupation and Ground Incursion
In recent days, the Israeli military launched a ground operation in Rafah, issuing orders to evacuate border areas of Gaza, including the cities of Rafah and Nasser. The Israeli military’s 36th Armored Division also began a limited ground incursion into Rafah, aiming to create a separation between the two cities. This military escalation is accompanied by airstrikes targeting Khan Yunis and Rafah, paving the way for the implementation of the “Moraj Axis.”
Political and Military Objectives
This operation aims to “cleanse” the Gaza Strip of Palestinian militants, according to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The military operation also seeks to strengthen Israeli security in the region by controlling more territory and expanding Israeli security zones around Gaza.
Palestinian and International Reactions
Many Palestinian analysts argue that this move represents an Israeli attempt to force the Palestinians into “voluntary migration,” under the guise of “voluntary resettlement.” These measures are seen as a significant blow to Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza, as Egypt has been working to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and improve economic conditions in the Strip.
This escalation occurs during a highly sensitive period, with Palestinians viewing it as part of a broader Israeli strategy to undermine any hopes for a just political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In Conclusion
Israel continues to carry out its military plans aimed at dividing Gaza and enforcing further control over Palestinian territories, which increases local and international concerns. This escalation complicates future political solutions and reflects the tense situation in the region.
