Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel will determine which countries are acceptable to take part in the proposed international force for Gaza, following the U.S.-brokered truce aimed at stabilizing the war-torn enclave.
Speaking during a cabinet meeting on Sunday, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s right to maintain control over its own security and to veto any international troops it considers unsuitable for deployment in Gaza. He emphasized that Israel’s sovereignty and security interests would remain non-negotiable, noting that “no one will decide for us who can or cannot operate in areas affecting our security.”
The statement comes amid discussions between the United States and regional partners on forming a multinational security force to oversee the ceasefire and assist in Gaza’s reconstruction. While Washington reportedly supports Israel’s position, Netanyahu’s remarks underline a potential obstacle to the plan, as Israel’s conditions could narrow the list of acceptable troop-contributing nations.
According to officials familiar with the talks, Israel has already ruled out certain countries, including Turkey, over longstanding political and security concerns. The final composition of the force is yet to be determined, with several Arab and Asian nations such as Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia being mentioned as possible contributors.
Netanyahu also stressed that Israel would not seek approval from other nations to defend itself or launch operations if necessary. “We will continue to act independently to ensure the safety of our people,” he said, reinforcing his government’s stance that Israel must retain operational freedom in Gaza and along its borders.
The U.S.-mediated ceasefire plan, part of a broader peace initiative supported by President Donald Trump’s administration, envisions the gradual disarmament of Hamas and the establishment of a multinational peacekeeping presence to ensure long-term stability. However, with Hamas yet to agree to full disarmament, and with disagreements over the international force’s makeup, implementation remains uncertain.
Regional analysts say Netanyahu’s declaration reflects Israel’s cautious approach toward any external involvement in Gaza’s postwar administration. “Israel wants to ensure that any peacekeeping or stabilization force will not compromise its security or empower hostile actors,” said a senior Middle East security expert based in Tel Aviv.
Despite international efforts to move the peace plan forward, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands displaced and essential services still crippled. As discussions continue, both the U.S. and Israel face growing pressure to finalize a viable framework for peace and reconstruction that satisfies regional partners while maintaining stability on the ground.