Israel proposes dividing Gaza into three restricted zones amid escalating conflict

Leaked plans suggest Israel intends to divide Gaza into three tightly controlled civilian strips separated by four exclusively military zones if a ceasefire with Hamas is not reached soon. The proposed arrangement would restrict the movement of up to 2.3 million Palestinians, requiring permission to travel between zones, and impose security screenings on goods, potentially separating people from their land and homes. The plan, titled "Stage Three: the complete takeover of Gaza," includes constructing military corridors and expanding buffer zones, with preparations such as bulldozing land already underway. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied the details, but the plan follows intensified military operations dubbed "Operation Gideon's Chariots," which have caused significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis due to a blockade on supplies since March. Hamas and Israel have resumed ceasefire talks in Qatar, with Hamas demanding an end to the war, prisoner swaps, Israeli withdrawal, and humanitarian aid access. The strategy also involves replacing UN and charitable aid delivery with private companies managing humanitarian support within the controlled zones.