Jerusalem:Israeli officials have announced the government's decision to authorize the United States to deploy an initial force of approximately 250 foreign soldiers in the Gaza Strip.
According to Maan News Agency, over the past two weeks, foreign military officers have been observed alongside American soldiers near the Gaza border. This activity coincides with ongoing preparations for the deployment of this international force.
So far, six countries have volunteered to join the force Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Uganda, and Albania. Kazakhstan has offered medical and logistical support, while Kosovo aims to contribute to security operations, law enforcement, and police duties.
A report by the Hebrew website "Walla," cited by The Jerusalem Post, highlights challenges such as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's pressure on Washington to include Turkey in the operations within the Gaza Strip. Israeli officials, however, are against Turkish involvement due to Ankara’s policies toward Israel and Turkey's reported hosting of a Hamas headquarters, which Israel considers a terrorist organization.
Israeli security officials express concerns about potential future U.S. policies towards Israel and the pace at which the multinational force might be deployed in Gaza. These concerns are heightened by fears that the U.S. administration might adopt tougher stances following Republican losses in the midterm elections.
An Israeli official warned that the Gaza Division and the Southern Command might unexpectedly find themselves outnumbered by a multinational force. He emphasized the need for Israel to prepare for various diplomatic and security scenarios.
Meanwhile, the U.S. military continues to deploy vehicles and equipment to a previously Israeli army base near the Gaza border, now under U.S. control. Enhancements have been made to the base's security, including surveillance systems and guard towers, with American soldiers providing continuous protection.
Israel's political leadership remains opposed to any reconstruction of Gaza without disarming Hamas and transferring control to a third party.