New American Details on the Anticipated International Force in Gaza

SadaNews - An American official revealed new details about the international force that will be deployed in the Gaza Strip, as part of the second phase of the agreement that led to the cessation of hostilities.

The official stated in remarks to the Israeli newspaper "Jerusalem Post" that the international stabilization force will be deployed in the sector at the beginning of 2026.

He indicated that the force will initially consist of personnel from only one or two countries, with the possibility of other countries joining later.

He added that the international stabilization force "will not be deployed in areas controlled by Hamas in the Gaza Strip."

While the American official did not disclose the participating countries, his statements came after Turkish security sources reported to local media that their forces are ready for deployment.

Sources were quoted as saying: "We have no objection to sending troops to Gaza to join the international stabilization force. The Americans are also very eager for our presence there, while Israel opposes that, and the Americans are pressing Israel to include Turkish forces (as part of the force)."

In November, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed uncertainty about when operations of the international stabilization force would commence.

Netanyahu noted that "many countries are hesitant to enter the Gaza Strip, despite declaring their support for the ceasefire."

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, also emphasized in November the necessity for the international stabilization force to play an active role in disarming Hamas.

However, the Israeli diplomat acknowledged at that time the difficulty of determining when this force would start its operations.

Danon said: "What matters to us now is to know whether this force is capable of leading the situation to stability and disarming Hamas. That is the immediate goal."