Footage reveals first members of International Stabilization Force arrive in Gaza

The first members of the International Stabilization Force, accompanied by other international personnel, have entered the Gaza Strip to prepare for reconstruction work in areas under Israeli military control beyond the “yellow line,” according to footage released Tuesday by Israeli groups Tzav 9 and the Otef Israel Forum.

The reported arrival comes as Hamas has yet to be disarmed and the territory’s demilitarization has not been implemented.

The footage, filmed in the Kerem Shalom area, shows what the organizations described as the first international teams entering Gaza to conduct surveys ahead of planned reconstruction operations.

The Otef Israel Forum said political statements suggesting that reconstruction would begin only after Hamas is disarmed apply only to areas still controlled by the group. According to the forum, Article 17 of the agreement allows reconstruction to begin in the coming weeks in areas under Israeli control along the “yellow line.”

The group said international forces and the Peace Council have already begun preliminary visits to Gaza as part of preparations for the reconstruction effort.

“International forces and the Peace Council have begun preliminary visits to the Gaza Strip in preparation for the planned reconstruction, while Hamas continues to strengthen and arm itself,” the Otef Israel Forum said, arguing that residents of communities near the Gaza border would oppose the process unless their security is guaranteed.

The Tzav 9 movement also criticized the prospect of reconstruction before Hamas is disarmed, arguing that rebuilding infrastructure while the group retains its military capabilities could undermine efforts to secure its disarmament.

Tzav 9 said it will hold a protest at Kerem Shalom on Tuesday, August 25, opposing the launch of reconstruction under the current conditions.