Israel's security cabinet is set to discuss a pilot project for restoring basic services in Gaza, including temporary housing and shelter construction in areas not under Hamas control, starting in the Rafah area. The first zone will be managed by the Palestinian technocratic government (NCAG) backed by an international stabilization force, according to reports. Residents will be vetted for Hamas affiliation.
Israel's security cabinet is set to discuss a detailed pilot plan for a humanitarian zone in Gaza, according to a report covered by The Zioneer. The plan, which is expected to begin in the Rafah area within weeks, includes the construction of temporary housing and shelters, restoration of basic services, and humanitarian aid delivery in areas not under Hamas control. The first zone will be managed by the Palestinian technocratic government (NCAG), supported by the International Stabilization Force (ISF). Residents seeking to live there will undergo thorough security vetting to ensure they are not affiliated with Hamas. This follows an initial report earlier today that the cabinet would receive details on the project.
The Zioneer reported earlier today (Sun 13:23 Jerusalem) that the security cabinet was expected to receive details on a pilot 'Hamas-free' humanitarian zone near Rafah, led by the Peace Council and backed by the IDF and an international stabilization force. Over the past weeks, The Zioneer has reported on the Board of Peace's evolving plans for Gaza. On July 1, the desk reported that the Board would open its first zone in the Tel Sultan neighborhood, policed by a multinational International Stabilisation Force using non-lethal weapons. On July 5, it was reported that the pilot zones would be policed by a Palestinian force armed only with Tasers and screened for Hamas or PA affiliation. On July 10, the desk reported that the Board aimed to establish the zone regardless of Hamas's agreement to disarm, but required cooperation from Israel and the Palestinian technocratic panel.
The pilot is part of the broader US-led Board of Peace initiative, as The Zioneer reported on June 30, which aims to create Hamas-free zones in Gaza as a test of President Trump's proposal. The NCAG, the technocratic government, is the Palestinian entity tasked with managing civilian affairs in the zone, with the ISF providing security. The vetting process is meant to ensure that the zone remains clear of Hamas operatives, a key demand of Israel.
The plan is still subject to cabinet discussion, and no final decision has been reported. The pilot's success will determine whether it is expanded to additional areas. The relationship between the pilot and the broader political situation, including the status of Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, remains unaddressed in the current plan.
3 developments
- DevelopingBoard of Peace plans pilot Gaza housing project, but green light remains elusive
- DevelopingGaza Board of Peace finalizes governance plans as disarmament talks stall
- DevelopingReport: US pushes Gaza reconstruction and international force, cabinet blocks interim deal
- DevelopingTrump's Board of Peace plans first 'Hamas-free' humanitarian zone in Rafah area within weeks
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