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Counter-Terrorism Strike Force administration in the Gaza Strip
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The Counter-Terrorism Strike Force (CSF), a Palestinian anti-Hamas armed group, is based in and governs the village of Kizan al-Najjar in the Khan Yunis Governorate of the Gaza Strip. The CSF, led by Husam al-Astal, had emerged in August 2025 as a rival to Hamas amid the Gaza war and the associated societal breakdown in the Gaza Strip.[2]
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History
CSF control over Kizan al-Najjar was first announced in September 2025, with al-Astal referring to the area as a "humanitarian zone" for which he was responsible.[1] The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reportedly evacuated the village and transferred it to al-Astal's control.[3] Kizan al-Najjar had been depopulated due to the war, but displaced Gazans invited by al-Astal began resettling the village.[4]
The CSF has been able to deploy its fighters outside of its territory, as shown by its intervention during the Hamas raid in Khan Yunis on 3 October.[5]
With the implementation of the 10 October ceasefire in Gaza, al-Astal says the CSF territory lies along the new frontline that the IDF pulled back to, though its troops remain nearby.[6]
In November 2025, the Counter-Terrorism Strike Force voiced their support for the Gaza peace plan and their willingness to cooperate with the United Nations mandated Board of Peace established to oversee the administration and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.[7]
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Population and society
Al-Astal says the civilian population in Kizan al-Najjar consists of around 30 families fleeing from Hamas, and is growing.[8][4]
According to a CSF video published online, Kizan al-Najjar boasts brightly lit buildings, a rarity in the Gaza Strip due to Israel cutting power to the territory during the war. Al-Astal claimed in 2025 that solar panels are used in the village and that he expects Israel to provide direct electricity and water.[4]
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See also
References
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