Muslim nations reluctant to send forces to Gaza: NYT report

As the Trump peace plan proposes the deployment of an international security force in the Gaza Strip, potential contributing countries are hesitant due to concerns over security risks, the lack of a clearly defined mandate, and the possibility of being perceived as occupying powers.

For the ceasefire to hold, Hamas is expected to give up its weapons, which is a major and politically sensitive demand. 

However, according to diplomats and others involved in the discussions, the Muslim countries that could contribute to the force are hesitant to send troops, fearing they might end up in direct confrontation with Hamas, which remains armed, according to the New York Times. 

President Trump’s 20-point plan, which helped bring about the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and the exchange of hostages for prisoners and detainees, called for the swift deployment of a temporary “International Stabilization Force” in Gaza.

Read: Trump claims Middle Eastern allies ready to send forces to Gaza to ‘eliminate Hamas’

This force would be responsible for securing zones vacated by Israeli troops, stopping the flow of weapons into the area, ensuring the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid, and helping to build and train a new Palestinian police force.

The establishment and deployment of an international force in Gaza could be a crucial factor in turning the current ceasefire into a long-term lasting peace.