The IDF has reduced the closed military zone surrounding Gaza and has permitted the opening of additional civilian areas in the western Negev, it announced Wednesday.
This is the first time that no community in the Gaza border area is under a closed military zone order.
The order took effect as of 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday and follows a situation assessment. The order will expire on August 31 of this year at 11:59 p.m.
The military said it is still on alert to defend the area.
The order was imposed at the beginning of the war in October 2023 and has been in effect since then. The decision was made in full coordination with local authorities.
Closed military zone still applies to select roads
The closed military zone will still apply to Road 4 from the intersection of Kibbutz Yad Mordechai to the Erez Crossing; Road 3411 from Zikim army base to Zikim Beach, and Zikim army base to the border of the security barrier of Gaza; Road 25 from Sa'ad North Junction to the border of the security border with Gaza; Road 242 from Kisufim Junction to Kisufim Crossing; Road 240 from the Hulit Junction to the Gaza Strip border; and Road 232 from Avshalom Junction to the Kerem Shalom Crossing.
The notice also states that entry and exit to areas that are designated as closed military zones will be allowed for permanent residents of nearby localities, and upon presenting identification for farmers in these areas who have received authorization from the designated military authority to enter for agricultural work, 24 hours in advance; and for those engaged in essential work according to the defense policy disseminated by the Home Front Command.