Retired General: Israel Plans Camp for Palestinians in Gaza

Israel has cleared land in southern Gaza for a potential camp for Palestinians, a retired Israeli general said on Tuesday. The camp could include surveillance and facial recognition at its entrance.

Retired Brigadier-General Amir Avivi told Reuters the camp would be built in Rafah, in an area cleared of Hamas tunnels. Entry and exit would be tracked by Israeli personnel.

Avivi, founder of the Israel Defense and Security Forum, does not represent the military officially. Israel’s military and Prime Minister’s Office declined to comment.

The camp could house Palestinians wishing to leave Gaza for Egypt or stay in the area. Israel prepares for a “limited reopening” of Rafah’s border crossing.

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Avivi said the camp could host hundreds of thousands and enforce ID checks, including facial recognition. Israel previously ordered troops to prepare a camp in July.

Meanwhile, Palestinians and Hamas officials criticized the plan as potential forced displacement. Gaza residents already face heavy restrictions on movement and surveillance of phones and online activity.

Israel plans to pursue disarmament of Hamas under U.S. mediation. Officials warned that refusal could lead to renewed attacks in Gaza, with military operations ready to resume.