Five nations have pledged troops for an international security contingent in Gaza, as stated by the leader of the force during a meeting in Washington, D.C., organized by President Donald Trump’s newly formed Board of Peace. Major General Jasper Jeffers, the commander of the International Stabilization Force (ISF), declared that Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania have committed troops, with Egypt and Jordan offering to train police forces.
The ISF is set to initiate operations in Rafa, Gaza, focusing on training local police and gradually expanding its presence across different sectors. The long-term vision entails deploying 20,000 ISF troops and training 12,000 police personnel, according to Jeffers.
During the gathering, Trump announced a $10 billion contribution from the U.S. to the Board of Peace, with details on the funding source remaining undisclosed and no involvement from Congress in authorizing the initiative. Nine nations have collectively raised $7 billion as an initial investment for Gaza’s reconstruction, contingent on the disarmament of Hamas.
Notably, the Board of Peace does not include Palestinian representation, a decision that has drawn criticism. Trump disclosed plans for FIFA and the United Nations to contribute $75 million for soccer initiatives in Gaza and $2 billion for humanitarian aid, respectively.
The absence of Palestinian representation on the board has sparked concerns, with Trump hinting at expanding its scope to address conflicts beyond Gaza. The move has raised apprehensions about potential challenges to the UN’s role in global diplomacy and conflict resolution.
Various NATO and EU allies, including Canada, have opted out of participation due to reservations, with Canada declining a permanent seat due to high admission costs. The board’s effectiveness will be tested in addressing critical issues such as Hamas disarmament, reconstruction efforts, and humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza.
Indonesia and Kazakhstan have pledged significant troop contributions, with Palestinians showing interest in joining the new police force. The disarmament of Hamas remains a contentious issue, with conflicting views on the process and timeline.
Netanyahu has reiterated Israel’s stance on Hamas disarmament, emphasizing the inevitability of compliance. Hamas has called for international monitoring of the ceasefire to prevent Israeli aggression, amid ongoing casualties in Gaza.
Trump’s announcement regarding Norway’s involvement in hosting a board event was refuted by the Norwegian government, clarifying its role in hosting a separate meeting for Palestinian aid coordination. Norway’s historical involvement in peace initiatives was highlighted, affirming its stance on not joining the Board of Peace.
As Trump touts peace efforts in the Middle East, concerns persist over escalating tensions in the region, particularly in light of U.S. military engagements with Iran over nuclear negotiations. Trump’s warning to Iran underscores the delicate balance of diplomacy and conflict resolution in the volatile region.