The European Union has rejected any change to territorial control in the Gaza Strip, following Israel’s introduction of what it calls the “orange line”, an EU spokesperson said on Monday.
Anouar El Anouni, spokesperson for EU foreign affairs, made the remarks in response to a question from Anadolu Agency about the new Israeli measure, which reportedly expands its control to more than 60 per cent of Gaza, instead of carrying out further withdrawals required under the peace agreement.
He stressed that the EU continues to underline the importance of unifying Gaza with the West Bank under the administration of the Palestinian Authority.
El Anouni added that the bloc is renewing its call for the urgent implementation of the Gaza peace plan, expressing deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the territory.
He also urged Israel to allow immediate, large-scale and unhindered access for humanitarian aid into Gaza, and to ensure its sustainable distribution.
Recently, the Israeli army introduced what has become known as the “orange line”, which goes beyond the “yellow line” set out in the ceasefire agreement in force since 10 October 2025.
Under the agreement, the “yellow line” separates areas under Israeli military control in the east from zones where Palestinians are allowed to be present in the west, covering around 53 per cent of the territory.
However, Israel has not adhered to this arrangement, gradually advancing beyond the yellow line into deeper parts of Gaza, in an area now referred to as the “orange line”.
