Israel controls 70 percent of Gaza, livable area shrinks sharply

According to the Gaza-based Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor, more than 70 percent of Gaza's territory is under the control or restriction of the Israeli military, severely limiting the movement of Palestinians there.

The center says the land usable for habitation and shelter has fallen to about 15 percent of the total territory, a figure that excludes destroyed areas and places lacking basic services. Gaza's total area is about 365 square kilometers.

The center says the Israeli military has been pushing the boundary of its controlled zone further westward. It says shelling, gunfire and building demolitions have forced residents of densely populated areas to relocate elsewhere.

Repeated displacement, lack of shelter and restrictions on reconstruction mean people have been unable to safely return home, the center said.

It said these measures raise questions about violations of Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which bars the forcible transfer of protected persons in occupied territory except in limited circumstances.

The center has urged the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey, which mediated the ceasefire, not to let the Israeli-controlled area expand further. It has also called on those countries to ensure civilian safety, Gaza's reconstruction, and the voluntary and safe return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.