International

Multinational Force in Gaza or Palestinian Peacekeeping Team?

Multinational Force in Gaza or Palestinian Peacekeeping Team?

U.S. officials in President Joe Biden's administration are engaging in "early discussions" about options for stabilizing Gaza after the war. Among the options is a proposal from the U.S. Department of Defense to help fund a multinational force or a Palestinian peacekeeping team, according to Politico on Thursday.

**Security Forces' Needs**

Two Pentagon officials and two unnamed American sources stated that the options being considered will not include the presence of U.S. troops on the ground. Instead, the funding provided by the Pentagon will be directed towards the needs of security forces, according to the officials.

**Reconstruction and Infrastructure**

The Pentagon officials clarified that under the initial plans being studied and discussed, the U.S. Department of Defense will provide funding for these security forces in Gaza. One of them stated that the assistance could be used for reconstruction, infrastructure, and other needs.

In response to a request for comment, a senior official in the U.S. administration said, "We are working with partners on various scenarios for interim governance and security structures in Gaza once the crisis subsides," refusing to provide specific details. They added, "We have had a number of discussions with the Israelis and our partners regarding the essential elements for the day after in Gaza when the time is right."

According to Politico, it may take weeks or months before Washington and its partners agree on any plan, especially since "regional countries want to see a commitment to a two-state solution before seriously engaging in options."

It is noteworthy that numerous scenarios have been proposed in international circles regarding the post-war phase in Gaza, including the return of the Palestinian Authority to rule the strip with modifications, transferring power to a technocratic government, or even Egyptian oversight with an international peacekeeping force to maintain security on the ground; however, none of these have yet gained international and regional consensus.

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