Hundreds of Israelis Establish Outpost Near Gaza to Renew Settlement

Hundreds of activists and families stayed over the Sabbath at an area called "Halutzei Aza" (Gaza Pioneers) as part of an initiative by the Nachala movement to promote the renewal of Jewish settlement in the Gaza Strip. Among the participants were Avi Farhan, who was previously evacuated from Yamit and Gush Katif, and Itzik Pituosi, the father of fallen soldier Sgt. Yishai Pituosi. The preparations are expanding, with more families expected to join. During the Sabbath, a joint observation of the Gaza Strip was conducted with families and activists. Concurrently, discussions were held regarding the continuation of activities in the area, preparations for absorbing additional families, and expanding the current settlement point. The movement is also considering relocating the outpost to the northern border area if permitted. Currently, this is an activists' plan, not an approved operation. The Nachala movement stated, "The government must listen to the voices from the field." As the Sabbath concluded, the Nachala movement expressed satisfaction with the broad participation, asserting that the presence of hundreds of families and activists indicates growing public support for renewing settlement in the Gaza Strip. The movement called on the Netanyahu government to advance a practical decision on the matter, presenting the renewal of settlement as a step they claim is essential for restoring security to Israeli residents. However, the issue of settlement in Gaza remains politically and security-wise controversial.