Morocco joins international force for gaza stability mission

Rabat has formalized its commitment to contribute troops to the international stabilization force destined for the Gaza Strip. The agreement was signed in the Moroccan capital during a high-level ceremony attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, senior defense officials, and Nikolaï Mladenov, representing the Gaza Peace Council. A delegation including the force commander was also present to mark the occasion.

The Moroccan government emphasized that this participation reflects its dedication to fostering both humanitarian and security conditions conducive to lasting peace in the region. Among the planned contributions are the deployment of senior military officers, gendarmerie personnel, police units, and the establishment of a field hospital in Gaza.

While the agreement represents a formal step, it builds on a prior pledge made in February, when Morocco became the first Arab nation to publicly announce its involvement. Moroccan officers have since integrated the force’s headquarters in southern Israel to assist in preparatory efforts.

The international coalition includes Albania, Kazakhstan, and Kosovo, though Morocco is poised to be the first nation to activate its deployment in Gaza. Under the proposed framework, Moroccan forces will play a key role in securing the perimeter of a proposed humanitarian zone near Rafah in southern Gaza. This area is intended to house temporary shelters and critical aid infrastructure, shielded by the international presence.

Deployment timelines remain uncertain. Israel must finalize bilateral agreements with each contributing nation to define the legal status of foreign troops in Gaza. Additionally, no start date has been set for the Rafah humanitarian zone, with construction potentially not commencing until early 2027.

In the interim, small teams from participating countries are already collaborating from a base in southern Israel. The international force is designed to support Gaza’s security transition, contingent upon progress in Hamas disarmament negotiations, the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the establishment of civilian governance structures in the territory.