Tensions have been running high in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinians since the beginning of the conflict in May 2021. In recent days, reports have emerged that the United States and some of its Western partners may be discussing the possibility of foreign troops serving as a peacekeeping force in the region in an effort to help mediate a ceasefire and end the violence.
The Israeli newspaper Yediot Ahronot first reported that officials from the US, UAE, Egypt, Norway, and Qatar were considering sending peacekeepers to Gaza in order to help create a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians. According to the report, the plan is backed by the European Union and other international actors in the region.
The objective of deploying peacekeepers would be to monitor the situation in Gaza and ensure that both sides adhere to the terms of any agreement they strike. As part of the effort, the peacekeepers would be tasked with monitoring movements on the ground, as well as preventing weapons smuggling and other activities that could undermine the fragile truce.
The news of foreign troops potentially serving as peacekeepers in Gaza has elicited both support and skepticism. Supporters of the move note the potential for increased security and longer-term stability in the region. Opponents of the move, however, point to potential backlash resulting from increased militarization or the risk of foreign troops abusing their power.
It is unclear whether the foreign troops plan will come to fruition. International actors have yet to present concrete details regarding the mission and what role, if any, the United States and its partners would play. Still, the flurry of diplomatic activity around the situation in Gaza suggests that some sort of agreement may be in the works. As the discussions between the US and its partners continue, it remains to be seen if foreign troops will ultimately be deployed and, if so, whether the mission will prove effective in establishing lasting peace in the region.