Analysis by Al Jazeera's open-source unit, based on data through May 2026, has identified 40 distinct Israeli military bases deep inside the Gaza Strip. Notably, the analysis shows eight of these bases were built from scratch after the ceasefire agreement took effect in October 2025, and one site remains under construction.
Instead of a full withdrawal as stipulated by the deal, Israeli forces are quietly consolidating fortified, permanent military outposts across the besieged territory. This infrastructure buildup coincides with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's stated intention to permanently occupy large parts of the Gaza Strip.
The new bases are strategically located: two in northern Gaza, two in the central area, one east of the Netzarim Corridor, and three in the southern city of Khan Younis. In some cases, the Israeli military established bases directly atop the ruins of the Eastern Cemetery in Khan Younis after leveling the area starting in November 2025.
Israeli forces have withdrawn to the 'Golden Line,' referring to buffer and military zones that now occupy about 60% of Gaza's territory. The expanding military footprint is seen as a direct violation of the US-brokered ceasefire, which called for an end to hostilities, the entry of aid, the disarmament of Hamas, and a phased troop withdrawal.
Since the war began in October 2023, Israeli attacks have killed nearly 73,000 Palestinians and wounded more than 172,919, with women and children accounting for most of the casualties. According to Gaza's Health Ministry data, violence did not end with the ceasefire: at least 929 Palestinians have been killed and 2,811 injured in the seven months since the deal formally took effect.
