Israel Approves International Stabilization Force for Gaza

DID Press: Israel’s security cabinet has approved the deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) to the Gaza Strip, according to Israeli media reports, although the decision was opposed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Israeli media reported that Ben-Gvir argued Hamas had failed to fulfill its commitments under the agreement and therefore Israel was not obligated to implement its own obligations.

A senior Israeli official said the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will continue to maintain control over areas known as the “Yellow Line” in Gaza and will not withdraw until Hamas has been disarmed.

The official added that the international force will operate with legal immunity under Israeli law and coordinate with the Israeli military while remaining outside areas under direct Israeli military control.

The security cabinet also decided that only countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel and refraining from actions against the country in international forums will be eligible to participate in the International Stabilization Force.

According to the reports, construction of the force’s base near Rafah in southern Gaza has already been approved, and approximately 30 Moroccan officers have visited the planned deployment site.

The International Stabilization Force was established under the Gaza peace agreement and was approved by the United Nations Security Council in November last year.