IDF Declares Closed Military Zone in Western Negev Ahead of Planned Knesset Members' March to Gaza Border

The Israel Defense Forces announced a closed military zone in the western Negev region starting Sunday at 8:00 AM until the same time the following day. The restricted area extends from the Yad Mordechai junction west of Highway 34 to Sha'ar HaNegev junction, and from Sha'ar HaNegev junction west of Highway 232 to Kerem Shalom. This declaration comes in response to a planned mass march towards the Gaza Strip scheduled for later that day.

The march, dubbed the "March of Thousands to Gaza," is set to include members of the Israeli cabinet, senior ministers, and dozens of Knesset members. Among the participants are Ministers Bezalel Smotrich, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Nir Barkat, and Shlomo Karhi. The event is organized under the rallying cry "Nissanit, Dugit, Eli Sinai - Now!" and is expected to draw thousands of Israeli citizens.

Organizers emphasized that the march aligns with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's call to "act rather than talk" at this time, alongside Defense Minister Israel Katz's intention to establish three Nahal pioneer groups in the northern Gaza border area. Additionally, Finance Minister and Minister in the Defense Ministry Bezalel Smotrich confirmed that the Settlement Administration, which he leads, has completed the necessary infrastructure and planning for new settlements in the region.

The announcement follows recent military operations by the 36th Division, which captured the Bofor ridge and destroyed underground tunnel systems in the area, underscoring heightened security measures ahead of the demonstration.