Israel to Decide on Foreign Troops in Gaza, Amid Uncertainty over Ceasefire Enforcement
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that Israel would decide which foreign forces can be part of an international force in Gaza, a move that underlines the country's determination to control its security situation. This international force is intended to help secure a fragile ceasefire and is part of US President Donald Trump's plan. Despite the Trump administration ruling out US soldiers' involvement, troops from Egypt, Indonesia, and Gulf Arab countries may be considered.
Background and Context
The plan to deploy an international force in Gaza has been met with skepticism and uncertainty. It remains unclear whether Arab and other states are ready to commit troops, particularly given the refusal of Palestinian Hamas militants to disarm. According to Middle East Eye, Israel has voiced concerns about the force's composition and has been in discussions with several countries, including Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, to contribute to the force.
Key Developments
Defence officials reportedly told Israeli lawmakers that the international force in Gaza could include troops from Pakistan, as reported by Ynet News and corroborated by Middle East Eye. This briefing to members of the Israeli parliament's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee indicated that the force will consist of soldiers from Indonesia, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan.
However, the Israeli Prime Minister has hinted at his opposition to any role for Turkish security forces in Gaza, as reported by Japan Times. Furthermore, King Abdullah of Jordan expressed to the BBC his belief that there would need to be peace in Gaza before any international forces were deployed.
Reactions and Implications
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that the US is collecting input on a possible UN resolution or international agreement to authorize a multinational force in Gaza. Rubio told reporters that many participating countries would need such an agreement due to their domestic laws. This issue will be discussed in Qatar, indicating that the US is actively involved in shaping the composition and mandate of the international force.
Despite Israeli assertions of having a veto over the force's composition, it's important to note that Palestinians have not been consulted on these decisions, according to Al Jazeera.
Current Status
At present, the situation remains in flux. While Israel asserts its right to decide which foreign forces can enter Gaza, Hamas widens its search for hostages, as reported by CBC News.
The formation of a stabilizing force in Gaza presents numerous challenges, including the acceptance and cooperation of various international entities. Netanyahu's assertion of Israel's power to decide on the forces in Gaza underscores the complexity of this situation. It remains to be seen how these developments will affect the already tense situation in Gaza.