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🇮🇱 Israel /Conflict & Security

IDF equips multinational force as Gaza operations loom

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • The IDF is equipping the International Stabilization Force (ISF) with military gear, including bulletproof vehicles, to manage security and disarmament in Gaza.
  • Despite IDF efforts to control 70% of Gaza, Hamas maintains control over the remaining 30%, complicating reconstruction and security efforts.
  • Security officials fear a fragmented reality in Gaza with areas controlled by ISF, Hamas, and the IDF, as Hamas is expected to exploit loopholes and resist disarmament.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are actively preparing for potential renewed operations against Hamas in Gaza, while simultaneously bolstering the International Stabilization Force (ISF) with essential military equipment. Sources within the IDF's Southern Command revealed that dozens of vehicles, including bulletproof models, were transferred to Gaza within a 24-hour period for use by American forces operating under the ISF.

The transfer of the vehicles is part of preparations being made for the ISF to take over security responsibilities in parts of the Gaza Strip.

— Sources in the Southern CommandDescribing the recent transfer of military equipment to Gaza.

This equipment transfer is a crucial step in the ISF's planned assumption of security responsibilities in parts of the Gaza Strip. The IDF has reportedly cleared approximately 70% of the territory of terrorists, weapons, and infrastructure, but Hamas continues to exert control over the remaining 30%. Regional sources indicate that diplomatic progress and reconstruction efforts are contingent upon an effective Palestinian force within Gaza capable of disarming Hamas and establishing control.

However, the situation on the ground appears to contradict these hopes. Hamas maintains its grip on Gaza and shows no signs of disarming. Meanwhile, the United States is reportedly pushing forward diplomatic processes independently of Israel's preferred timeline, which prioritizes Hamas's disarmament before reconstruction. Security officials express concern that this approach could lead to a complex and fragmented security landscape in Gaza, with distinct zones under the control of the ISF, Hamas, and the IDF.

progress of diplomatic processes was conditional and dependent on an effective national force within Gaza disarming Hamas and taking control of the strip.

— Sources involved in the regional processExplaining the conditions for diplomatic progress in Gaza.

IDF estimates suggest that militant groups in Gaza possess a significant arsenal, including thousands of missiles, various explosive devices, drones, and an active tunnel-digging system. Security officials believe Hamas leadership is primarily focused on self-preservation and consolidating its governance, leading to a current de-escalation of direct provocations against the IDF.

Hamas knows how to exploit loopholes and profit from the reconstruction process. It will not easily give up power.

— Security officialsExpressing concerns about Hamas's resilience and ability to adapt.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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