According to documents reviewed by the Guardian, Donald Trump has initiated plans to construct a military base in Gaza capable of housing up to 5,000 troops.
Guardian reporters Aram Roston and Kate Brown obtained contracting records detailing the proposed 350-acre facility as part of Trump's controversial "Board of Peace" initiative. The base would serve as headquarters for the Board of Peace's International Stabilization Force (ISF).
The facility design includes "26 trailer-mounted armored watch towers, a small arms range, bunkers, and a warehouse for military equipment for operations. The entire base will be encircled with barbed wire."
The proposed site is located in an area devastated by years of Israeli military operations. International construction companies with war zone experience have already conducted site visits to assess the location.
Several critical questions remain unanswered regarding the proposal. It is unclear what the ISF's rules of engagement would be during combat, renewed Israeli bombing, or Hamas attacks. The ISF's specific role in disarming Hamas—a condition Israel has set for Gaza reconstruction—also remains undefined.
The proposal follows negotiations led by Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner regarding the Board of Peace's operational structure.
You can read more here.
