The Cabinet approves the deployment of an international force in Gaza and the construction of its first military base near Rafah

The Israeli mini-cabinet for political and security affairs (the Cabinet) approved a plan to introduce the so-called 'Peace Council' and the multinational force (ISF) into the Gaza Strip. This step includes the immediate commencement of construction of the first military site designated for these forces in an area near the city of Rafah, south of the Strip, in a field development that reflects the features of the next phase that the occupation seeks to impose.

The Cabinet meeting witnessed a sharp division in ministers' opinions, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressing strong opposition to the decision, reiterating his extremist calls for the necessity of 'encouraging voluntary emigration' of Palestinians instead of bringing in international forces. In contrast, the decision was supported by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, while Minister Gideon Sa'ar defended the move, considering it part of a broader international strategy that Israel's interest is not served by thwarting it at the present time.

On the Palestinian side, this news was met with categorical rejection from various forces and factions, which affirmed that any attempt to impose external guardianship over the Gaza Strip would be met with rejection. Palestinian sources stressed that the administration of the Strip's affairs is a sovereign right of Palestinians alone, warning against turning international forces into a tool to entrench the occupation or legitimize its presence under different pretexts.

The national forces clarified that the top priority at this stage is a comprehensive cessation of aggression, the withdrawal of occupation forces from all areas of the Strip, and the opening of crossings for reconstruction. They also indicated that any international presence, if agreed upon, must be temporary and limited to tasks of protecting civilians and stabilizing the calm, leading to a clear political path that guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

The administration of the Gaza Strip is a purely internal Palestinian affair, and any international presence must be limited to protecting civilians and stabilizing the ceasefire.