U.S. Military to Oversee Initial Deployment of International Stability Force to Gaza
In a significant development, the U.S. military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) is set to manage the first phase of the International Stability Force (ISF) deployment to the Gaza Strip. Three or four additional countries are expected to join in contributing troops for the operation, which will initially involve around 200 personnel.
Following President Trump’s comments regarding the peacekeeping force’s makeup, Navy Adm. Brad Cooper informed reporters in a White House-backed call that, notably, there would be no American troops included in this initial group.
A U.S. official mentioned, “His role is to supervise, observe, and ensure that there are no breaches or intrusions. There’s a lot of concern about the other side. Much of this effort will be focused on surveillance.”
According to another source, the team of 200 will likely consist of military supporters from Egypt, Qatar, as well as a number of personnel from Turkey and the UAE. The intent is to establish a collaborative environment.
Another official reiterated that “U.S. forces have no intention of entering Gaza.”
CENTCOM’s responsibilities include setting up a command center that will facilitate the coordination of Arab forces while maintaining clear communication with Israeli troops.
The official explained, “The aim here is to keep the Israelis aware of what they observe and to keep the Egyptians, Qataris, and Turks informed too, while enhancing security strategies.”
Adm. Cooper was part of the discussions leading to a diplomatic breakthrough earlier this week, which entailed a ceasefire and agreements on the release of hostages.
“We’re currently in talks with multiple governments to address ISF forces. I believe it will be easier now with Admiral Cooper. He entered our first meeting and noted, ‘We can have a command room operational in two weeks,’” the official recalled, adding, “We’re actively trying to identify the precise location for the CENTCOM command center.”
