Trump's Gaza Military Base Plan Unveiled in Board of Peace Documents
Former US President Donald Trump is reportedly advancing plans to construct a substantial 5,000-person military base in the Gaza Strip, according to contracting records from the Board of Peace viewed by the Guardian. This expansive facility is designated to serve as the headquarters for a newly proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF), a multinational army initiative.
Scale and Specifications of the Proposed Gaza Base
The military outpost is planned to occupy more than 350 acres of arid flatlands in southern Gaza. It will measure approximately 1,400 metres by 1,100 metres, with its entire perimeter secured by barbed wire fencing. Security will be bolstered by 26 trailer-mounted armoured watch towers positioned around the site.
Internal infrastructure outlined in the documents includes soldier bunkers equipped with sophisticated ventilation systems, a dedicated small arms firing range, and a warehouse for storing military equipment to support operational needs. The contract mandates that the selected contractor must perform a comprehensive geophysical survey to identify any subterranean voids, tunnels, or large cavities on the site.
Protocols and International Involvement
A notable 'Human Remains Protocol' is included in the plans, requiring all construction work to cease immediately if human remains or cultural artifacts are discovered during the build. This is particularly significant given claims from Gaza’s civil defense agency that thousands of Palestinians remain buried under rubble in the territory.
The ISF, comprising troops from various nations, is intended to support 'vetted Palestinian police forces.' However, its precise role in the event of a conflict outbreak remains undefined. Trump has previously stated he will not deploy US ground troops to Gaza, yet Indonesia has reportedly offered to contribute up to 8,000 soldiers to oversee peace efforts.
Board of Peace Meeting and Global Reactions
Trump is scheduled to personally chair the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace on February 19, where he will detail plans for the ISF. Delegations from at least 20 countries, including several heads of state, are expected to attend this landmark session.
The board has already garnered support from key regional players such as Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, alongside Indonesia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also committed to joining during his Washington visit.
In contrast, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has indicated that Britain will not immediately sign up to Trump's proposed Board of Peace, citing concerns over the potential involvement of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
A consortium of international construction firms with experience operating in war zones is said to have already conducted site visits in Gaza. The military base contract document was formally issued by the Board of Peace, which is chaired by Donald Trump and led by Jared Kushner, with preparatory assistance provided by US officials.
