Peace Council Begins Rafah Reconstruction: Residents of Otef Aza Fear Repeat of October 7

Israel's security cabinet approved a pilot project for the reconstruction of Rafah with the involvement of international forces, despite protests from residents of border areas who fear a repeat of the October 7 attacks.

Israel's security cabinet approved a pilot project for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, starting with Rafah, with the participation of international stabilization forces (ISF). The decision has alarmed residents of Otef Aza, who fear a repeat of the events of October 7, 2023. The head of the Eshkol Regional Council, Michal Uziyahu, sent a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanding the complete disarmament of Hamas before reconstruction begins. Minister Orit Strock supported the residents, stating that the goals of the war have not changed. The public movement "Atid la-Otef" and the mayor of Sderot, Alon Davidi, also opposed the plan. A political source explained that in the first phase, about 200 soldiers from Uganda, Morocco, Kosovo, and Kazakhstan would enter the Strip. The plan includes the construction of temporary structures and the management of a Palestinian "technocrat cabinet" (NCAG) with the support of multinational forces. Israel insists on maintaining the "yellow line" and the complete demilitarization of Gaza.