U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has revealed that a significant number of countries are prepared to join an international security force for Gaza. This initiative is a central element of President Donald Trump’s peace proposal.
Rubio indicated that discussions regarding the formation of the International Stabilization Force (ISF) are ongoing, with the aim of its deployment as soon as feasible. A key challenge identified is the potential need for an agreement with Hamas for the force’s deployment, the specifics of which remain unclear.
He described the current ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as having achieved “historic” progress in its first two weeks, while also cautioning about the expected “ups and downs and twists and turns” ahead.
Rubio emphasized the necessity of creating conditions that prevent future attacks like the one on October 7th, ensuring Gaza is free from groups posing a threat to Israel and its own people.
The conflict originated from the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken to Gaza. The subsequent Israeli military campaign has led to a significant number of Palestinian casualties, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
Rubio asserted that Hamas must be disarmed as stipulated by the peace plan, warning that any refusal would constitute a violation of the agreement requiring enforcement. He also stated definitively that Hamas should not be involved in governing Gaza’s future.
Rubio’s visit follows a series of high-level visits by American officials, signaling Washington’s commitment to the success of Trump’s Gaza plan and concerns about potential disruptions by the Israeli government. Reports in Israeli media have characterized these diplomatic efforts as “Bibi-sitting,” a nod to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s nickname.
Recent reports suggest growing frustration in the White House regarding the Israeli government’s actions, particularly in light of its military response in Gaza and the Israeli parliament’s vote on West Bank annexation during Vice President JD Vance’s visit. American officials have reportedly conveyed that they “will not tolerate any surprises from Israel that could jeopardise the ceasefire” and expect prior notification before any strikes in Gaza, implying a potential shift in security authority.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has publicly refuted claims that Washington is dictating Israel’s actions, framing the relationship as a partnership. However, the pressure from the US, Israel’s crucial ally, amid international isolation, could undermine Netanyahu’s strategy to project victory in the war, a narrative vital for upcoming elections.
Both Rubio and Vance expressed optimism about the ceasefire holding but acknowledged the difficult and lengthy nature of the negotiations, which include Israeli withdrawal, future governance of Gaza, the formation of the ISF, and Hamas’s disarmament. Specifics on how these talks will progress remain undisclosed.
Rubio reiterated that numerous countries have offered to participate in the ISF, emphasizing that Israel’s comfort level with these nations will be a crucial factor. This comment is seen as a potential reference to Turkey, a key negotiator, amid reports of an Israeli veto on its involvement.
The exact mandate of the ISF remains undefined, with concerns that participant forces might engage in conflict with Hamas if an agreement on deployment is not reached with the group.
Rubio concluded by stating that implementing the peace plan will be challenging, with inevitable obstacles, but stressed the importance of its success.