International Force Deemed Essential for Gaza peace as U.S. navigates Turkish Role, regional Concerns
GAZA CITY – Efforts to establish a multinational security force in Gaza are facing complex challenges, wiht key stakeholders disagreeing on composition and deployment, despite indications Hamas may accept the force with Turkish participation. The United States is attempting to broker an agreement, but faces resistance from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who opposes a Turkish military presence, and anxieties from Jordan regarding the fate of Palestinian refugees.
The potential deployment of an International Security Force (ISF) hinges on securing buy-in from multiple nations, including Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, who have reportedly signaled Hamas’ willingness to accept the force – but only with Turkish involvement. U.S. officials recognize Türkiye’s crucial role in securing Hamas’ agreement, with one unnamed source telling Arutz Sheva, Israel’s national news association, “the Turks were very helpful in getting the Gaza deal, and Netanyahu’s bashing Türkiye has been very counterproductive.” Without Turkish participation, diplomats believe Hamas is unlikely to agree to the ISF’s presence within Gaza.
The proposed ISF is envisioned as more than a traditional policing operation, requiring enforcement of peace on both sides of the conflict, a task complicated by resistance from elements within the region. concerns extend beyond immediate security, with Jordan’s King Abdullah II reportedly apprehensive about the potential for further displacement of Palestinians. This echoes historical precedents; diaries of David Ben-Gurion, a leader in the early Zionist movement, document that Palestinian residents initially welcomed Jewish immigrants, unaware they would ultimately be dispossessed. Following the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, many Palestinians were displaced to neighboring countries like Lebanon and Jordan, aided by Abdullah I, the than-emir of Transjordan, who provided refuge.His grandson,the current King,appears less inclined to offer the same protection.
