Cabinet gives Board of Peace green light to enter Gaza

What the report says

Israel National News reports that Israel’s Security Cabinet has approved a pilot framework allowing the Board of Peace to enter Gaza, in what the outlet described as a step toward arranging civilian administration in parts of the enclave. The decision was reported on July 26, 2026. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir opposed the move, while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich supported it.

According to the report, the pilot would begin in the Rafah sector and focus on restoring essential services, moving humanitarian aid and setting up temporary shelter for local residents in areas said to be separated from Hamas control. Residents seeking to enter those areas would undergo security checks and vetting intended to prevent Hamas-linked or other terrorist operatives from infiltrating. Civilian management would be led by a Palestinian technocratic National Committee for the Administration of Gaza.

The article says the civilian effort would be protected by an International Stabilization Force now being formed from several countries. A senior Israeli diplomatic official cited by the outlet said the cabinet approved immunity for the force under Israel’s law on international organizations, and that any deployment would require approval from the prime minister, defense minister and foreign minister. The official also said Israel would decide which countries may contribute personnel, with eligibility limited to states that have peace agreements with Israel and do not act against it or its officials internationally. The initial force is expected to number about 200 people, including from Uganda and Morocco.

The report frames the measure as linked to President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan. The official said Israel would keep the IDF on the Yellow Line and would not withdraw while Hamas remains armed and Gaza is not fully demilitarized.