Israel Rejects Turkish participation in Gaza security Force, Citing Past Concerns with International Peacekeepers
JERUSALEM – Israel has stated it does not want Turkish troops as part of any international stabilization force deployed in the Gaza Strip, a government spokesperson confirmed Sunday. The proclamation comes as discussions continue regarding security arrangements for the region following the current conflict with Hamas, and potential implementation of a US peace plan.
Several nations, including egypt, Indonesia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, have expressed interest in contributing to the International Security Forces (ISF) intended to eventually assume security responsibilities from the israeli army. US Vice President JD vance indicated in October that Washington believes Ankara could play a constructive role in the peace process, but affirmed the US would not dictate troop composition to Israel.
Despite maintaining diplomatic ties, Turkey has been consistently critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, labeling them as “genocide and crimes against humanity” – accusations israel vehemently denies, asserting its operations are acts of self-defense following Hamas’s October 7th invasion and subsequent attacks.
Israel’s reluctance stems from past experiences with international peacekeeping missions in the region.Officials point to the perceived ineffectiveness of the UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon after Israel’s withdrawal in 2000.Following the withdrawal, the area fell under the complete control of Hezbollah, a Shiite radical movement, wich, bolstered by Iranian arms, became a threat to both Israel and Lebanon.
“Israel fears that Turkish troops in the Gaza strip would not be as passive as UNIFIL in Lebanon, but would actively incite anti-Israel resistance there,” according to concerns voiced by Israeli officials.
Government spokeswoman Shosh Berdosian directly addressed the issue, stating, “No Turkish troops will be there,” when questioned by journalists about the composition of the proposed stabilization force.
