The U.S. military is exploring whether to build a temporary base capable of housing 10,000 people near the Gaza Strip as part of its push for a stabilization force of troops from other countries to monitor a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The navy is seeking a cost estimate from a list of pre-qualified companies for ¡°a temporary, self-sustaining military base of operations capable of supporting 10,000 personnel and providing 10,000 square feet of office space for a period of 12 months,¡± according to a Request for Information sent to eligible contractors.

The Request for Information identifies the potential site as ¡°near Gaza, Israel.¡± It was sent on Oct. 31, according to two people familiar with the matter who asked not to be named discussing private deliberations. Responses were due Nov. 3.