Settler Activists Establish Gaza Outpost, Minister Supports Evacuation Call

Activists from the "Nahala" movement established a new outpost in the Shachmoni Forest, located between Kibbutz Kfar Aza and Kibbutz Nachal Oz in the Gaza envelope, during the night between Thursday and Friday of last week. The group defines the site as an "intermediate goal for settlement in Gaza." In response, the Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council called on the police on Sunday to "act without delay to enforce the law at the site."

While the police and military have not yet made efforts to evacuate the activists, a police spokesperson stated that a complaint was received from the Jewish National Fund (JNF) regarding unauthorized entry into the Shachmoni Forest and the erection of structures. The complaint is being handled according to police authority and in coordination with relevant bodies.

The "Nahala" movement, founded by activist Daniella Weiss during the disengagement period, has primarily focused on establishing outposts in Judea and Samaria. Throughout the Swords of Iron War, the movement has advocated for renewing Jewish settlement in Gaza, with some activists having previously infiltrated the Strip.

The new outpost, named "Pioneers of Gaza," was established similarly to previous actions in Judea and Samaria, quickly and covertly, by setting up temporary structures and basic infrastructure. Weiss stated, "The goal is to establish Jewish settlement in Gaza. The ready settlement nuclei will not move from here except to enter the Strip. We have come to strengthen the Prime Minister and hold the territory, but security control is not enough. We will not build only a garrison here, but palaces for Jews in Gaza."

In a message to its residents, the Sha'ar HaNegev Council declared, "Our position is clear: we expect and demand that the Israel Police enforce the law at the site and act without delay against any violation. Public order, resident security, and daily life in the area must be maintained." The council affirmed it would continue to follow up with authorities on the matter.

Minister of Communications Shlomo Karhi was present at the outpost's establishment and stated, "We will continue to deepen roots in the Gaza Strip." The "Nahala" movement urged the government to immediately declare the relocation of the settlement to the northern Gaza border.