Israel has announced the completion of its takeover of the so-called Morag Corridor, a newly declared “security buffer” that now isolates Rafah from the rest of Gaza. The move effectively places southern Gaza under permanent Israeli military control, drawing accusations of de facto annexation.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed on Saturday that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have established a continuous zone of control from the Egyptian border near the Philadelphi Corridor to the outskirts of Khan Yunis. The area, once densely populated with displaced civilians, is now a militarized zone under Israeli jurisdiction.

“This will prevent weapons smuggling and restore our security buffer,” Katz said. He did not indicate whether the zone would be temporary or what authority—if any—the Palestinian population would have in the area.

The newly claimed buffer zone comprises roughly 20 percent of Gaza’s territory. Human rights observers say the land seizure follows a pattern of creeping annexation. “This is not about security—it’s a calculated territorial grab,” said a spokesperson for Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor.

The move follows weeks of relentless bombardment and mass displacement. The United Nations estimates that at least 400,000 Palestinians have been forced to flee Rafah since the resumption of hostilities on March 18. No safe zones remain in Gaza, and humanitarian access continues to deteriorate.

Israel’s declaration has been met with alarm by aid organizations and legal experts, who warn that establishing a permanent military buffer inside occupied territory could constitute a violation of international law. Under the Fourth Geneva Convention, the annexation of territory acquired through military force is prohibited.

Despite this, no immediate diplomatic response has come from Washington, though European Union officials have expressed concern. A formal condemnation has yet to be issued.