Full Breakdown
International Stabilization Force for Gaza: A New Era of Peacekeeping
2/19/2026, 10:00:36 PM
Overview of the International Stabilization Force
During the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington, D.C., on February 19, 2026, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced Turkey's commitment to contribute troops to the newly established International Stabilization Force (ISF) for Gaza. The ISF aims to facilitate the demilitarization of Hamas and maintain a ceasefire between Israel and the militant group. The force's commander, Major General Jasper Jeffers, confirmed that five countries—Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania—have pledged troops, while Egypt and Jordan will train police forces in Gaza.
Key Contributions and Commitments
Indonesia is set to provide a significant contribution of 8,000 troops, with initial deployments expected to begin in April 2026. Kazakhstan will also send military units, including medical support, while Morocco and Albania have committed to police deployments. Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani emphasized the importance of this participation for Kosovo's foreign policy, stating the commitment to work closely with the United States and the Board of Peace to promote stability in conflict-affected regions.
Strategic Objectives and Operational Plans
The ISF will initially focus on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where it will train police and expand its operations sector by sector. The long-term goal is to deploy a total of 20,000 troops and train 12,000 police personnel. The force is expected to operate in areas already under Israeli control, as part of a broader strategy to maintain public order and prevent the resurgence of terrorist elements.
Funding and Reconstruction Efforts
At the Board of Peace meeting, President Donald Trump announced that participating nations have pledged $7 billion towards Gaza's reconstruction, with the U.S. contributing $10 billion. Despite these commitments, the total funding is a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed for comprehensive rebuilding efforts following the recent conflict. The international community's focus remains on stabilizing Gaza and ensuring effective governance.
Criticism and Opposition
The establishment of the ISF has faced skepticism, particularly regarding the disarmament of Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that reconstruction efforts would not commence until Hamas disarms. Critics have raised concerns that the Board of Peace, which does not include Palestinian representatives, could undermine the United Nations' role in conflict resolution. Additionally, key regional players like Jordan and Saudi Arabia have declined to send troops, complicating the force's operational capabilities.
Conflicting Reports and Challenges Ahead
While the ISF aims to stabilize Gaza, challenges remain regarding the demilitarization of Hamas and the readiness of the new police force. Reports indicate that Hamas has shown little willingness to disarm, raising doubts about the feasibility of the ISF's mission. The U.S. administration acknowledges the difficulties but remains hopeful based on feedback from mediators.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am very pleased to announce that the first five countries have committed to sending forces to serve within the International Stabilization Force,” — Major General Jasper Jeffers, ISF Commander
- “The Republic of Kosovo remains committed to working closely with our main ally, the United States, and with the Board of Peace to bring concrete results, to support peace and stability in conflict-affected regions, and to promote a future based on cooperation, security, and shared prosperity,” — Vjosa Osmani, President of Kosovo
- “We agreed with our friends in the United States: There will be no reconstruction of the Gaza Strip before the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip,” — Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
As the ISF prepares for deployment, the international community watches closely, aware that the success of this initiative could reshape the future of Gaza and its governance.
