Egypt Poised to Lead International Stabilization Force in Gaza with UN Backing

International Efforts Underway for Gaza Stabilization

Diplomatic sources indicate that Egypt is being positioned to lead a proposed international stabilization force tasked with managing security in the Gaza Strip during a transitional post-conflict phase. This development is part of a broader peace initiative, often referred to as US President Donald Trump's 20-point plan, designed to bring stability to the region. The force is expected to operate under a mandate from the United Nations Security Council.

European powers and the United States are reportedly preparing a motion to secure a UN mandate for this force. While it would have UN backing, it is not anticipated to be a traditional UN peacekeeping mission. Instead, its structure and powers might resemble those granted to international troops deployed in Haiti to combat armed groups.

Egypt's Pivotal Role and Contributing Nations

Egypt's historical ties to Gaza and its established role as a mediator between Israeli and Palestinian factions make it a crucial player in this stabilization effort. Cairo has been actively involved in negotiations and has expressed its commitment to contributing to reconstruction efforts, though it has also voiced wariness about taking sole responsibility for Gaza's security.

Beyond Egypt, several other nations have been identified as potential troop contributors. Turkey, Indonesia, and Azerbaijan are among the countries reportedly being considered to provide personnel for the force. While European and British troops are not expected to be on the ground, the United Kingdom has deployed advisers to a US advisory cell in Israel, which is working on implementing aspects of the peace plan.

Mandate and Challenges Ahead

The primary objectives of the international stabilization force include securing the Gaza Strip during a transitional period, overseeing the demilitarization of groups like Hamas, and training a new Palestinian police force. This is intended to facilitate a staged withdrawal of Israeli forces from certain areas of Gaza.

However, significant challenges remain. The decommissioning of Hamas's weapons is considered a major stumbling block, and Israel has indicated its intention to maintain a substantial buffer zone for its security. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has stated that Hamas has 'welcomed and accepted' the broader peace plan, but negotiations on the 'modalities, format, and procedures' for implementation, including disarmament, are ongoing. The proposal is still in its early stages, with discussions continuing among international partners to finalize the terms of reference and secure the necessary UN resolution.