Uganda has pledged approximately 1,200 military personnel to join a proposed international stabilization force for Gaza, while Burundi is still deliberating its involvement, as per informed officials.
These developments come in the wake of military personnel from Uganda and Burundi visiting Israel to discuss their potential roles in the force outlined under former US President Donald Trump’s Gaza ceasefire framework.
Uganda’s 1,200 Personnel Commitment
Uganda’s parliament recently approved deploying its military to Gaza, setting the stage for the country’s participation if the international force is realized. Officials are currently wrapping up plans for Uganda’s contribution, with troop selection reportedly underway.
The planned International Stabilization Force aims to comprise about 20,000 personnel tasked with overseeing a ceasefire, enhancing security measures, training Palestinian police, and ensuring humanitarian aid delivery.
Burundi’s Decision Pending
Burundi has yet to confirm its decision regarding the Gaza force. However, the participation of its military delegation in recent Israeli discussions indicates a rising interest in joining the mission.
A leading Burundian military team joined their Ugandan counterparts in Israel to deliberate on possible deployment and operations.
Should Burundi opt in, it would join another African nation in contributing to this proposed international security effort.
Current Troop Commitments Lagging
Despite aiming for a 20,000-strong force, existing troop commitments fall significantly short. Morocco has offered around 500 personnel, while Kosovo, Kazakhstan, and Albania collectively contribute about 80. Indonesia initially planned a significant deployment but has since put those plans on hold.
This shortage presents just one of several hurdles for the proposed mission.
Challenges Facing Gaza Deployment
The proposed force is intended to support a broader ceasefire and political framework, which includes stabilizing Gaza after an Israeli withdrawal and Hamas disarmament. Yet, substantial disagreements persist regarding plan implementation. The United States has allocated over $206 million to back the proposed force, funding infrastructure, equipment, and operations.
Questions around deployment timing, the force’s exact mandate, and preconditions for entry into Gaza remain unresolved.
For both Uganda and Burundi, joining would mark a substantial expansion of their international peacekeeping engagements. Both have substantial experience in African security missions, including operations in Somalia.
As discussions advance, Uganda’s commitment of 1,200 personnel could form a significant component of the necessary contingent, while Burundi’s possible involvement could further bolster African contributions to the security initiative in Gaza.
