IDF Prepares Area Near Former Gaza Settlements for Arrival of First Multinational Force

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have designated the area around the former settlements of Bnei Atzmon and Dolev in the Gaza Strip as the entry zone for the first multinational force expected to deploy there. This area lies northwest of Rafah, beyond the original "yellow line" security boundary. Over recent weeks, the IDF has taken control of and cleared this territory in preparation for the multinational force's arrival, although no official timeline has yet been set.

Currently, Israel controls 52% of the original yellow line area and has expanded its hold beyond it, marking new points in the northwest Rafah region. A security official told Channel 12 News that Israel will not relinquish control of the yellow line and that any multinational force would be allowed to occupy only the newly secured territory beyond it.

Meanwhile, tensions along the Gaza border remain high. Authorities recently detected incendiary balloons launched from Gaza near Israeli border communities. The Israeli security establishment believes Hamas is using these balloons to test damage potential, alongside continued use of explosive balloons and rocket fire. Observers have issued warnings of militant activity near the border fence, underscoring the fragile security situation as political plans for the multinational force advance.