The IDF is finalising plans to fully evacuate Rafah and establish a strategic buffer zone along Gaza’s southern border with Egypt, in what Israeli officials describe as a critical step in the dismantling of Hamas’ military presence in the area.
The plan centers on the construction of the new Morag Corridor – a new zone extending from the Mediterranean coast in the west through the former settlement of Morag, and connecting to the Philadelphi Corridor along the Egyptian border.
The corridor is expected to stretch up to 3.1 miles into Gaza, effectively encircling Rafah and split off the southern section of the Strip, bisecting the area between Rafah and Khan Younis.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated earlier this week: “Rafah will be evacuated. This area will become a buffer zone to eliminate Hamas's ability to regroup or smuggle weapons through the southern border.”
