US launches major military base project on Gaza frontier

The United States has begun constructing a large military base near the Gaza border, despite ongoing uncertainty over the future of the enclave and the continued refusal of Hamas to disarm, Israel Hayom reports.

The facility, located near the Re'im camp, is expected to serve as a military and civilian headquarters for international organizations and forces tasked with implementing post-war initiatives under the Trump administration's proposed plan for Gaza. The new installation is also intended to replace the multinational headquarters previously based in Kiryat Gat.

While international attention has largely shifted away from Gaza, efforts to advance the proposed framework continue. The Board of Peace and affiliated organizations are reportedly pressing ahead with preparations, even as negotiations over Hamas' disarmament remain deadlocked. Recent talks in Cairo failed to produce an arrangement acceptable to the group's leadership.

Despite the diplomatic impasse, planning for Gaza's future rehabilitation is moving forward. Expert committees have reportedly drafted plans covering key civilian sectors, including education, infrastructure development and rubble removal.

According to the report, the US military has already begun work on the new base and is issuing tenders for mobile structures, equipment and a command-and-control tower. Temporary facilities will initially house personnel until permanent infrastructure is completed.

At its peak, the multinational headquarters in Kiryat Gat hosted representatives from more than 24 countries, including several Arab states. However, most participating nations withdrew after the outbreak of the Israel-Iran war.

Five countries — Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo and Albania — have agreed to contribute forces to the mission. Bangladesh, Pakistan and Azerbaijan have expressed preliminary support but have not made formal commitments. The report notes that many countries have effectively suspended their participation plans because of the conflict with Iran.

Indonesia, however, has continued preparations and is reportedly training a contingent of approximately 5,000 personnel for potential deployment. Israel has opposed the participation of troops from countries it considers hostile, including Pakistan and Türkiye.

Security sources told Israel Hayom that construction of the base is being carried out in full coordination with Israel. The Israeli Defence Ministry and the Israel Defence Forces are reportedly providing logistical support and coordination for the project.

Israeli security officials estimate that the facility could become operational within a few months. However, without progress on the issue of Hamas' disarmament, activity at the site is expected to remain limited to planning and coordination efforts.

One security source told Israel Hayom: "The chance of fighting resuming in the Gaza Strip is greater than the possibility of a diplomatic agreement."

The source added that, according to current assessments, the likelihood of renewed hostilities outweighs the prospect that Hamas will voluntarily surrender its weapons through negotiations.

By Vafa Guliyeva