U.S. officials have indicated that an international stabilization force could be deployed in Gaza under UN authority, potentially starting next month. The force would include international troops, but it remains unclear how Hamas would be disarmed.
According to two U.S. officials speaking to Reuters, a U.S. two-star general is being considered to lead the force, though no final decision has been made. The deployment is a key part of President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. The first phase began on October 10 with a two-year ceasefire, resulting in the release of hostages by Hamas and the release of Palestinian detainees by Israel.
Read more: Trump to appoint US general for Gaza force
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said planning for the second phase is ongoing behind the scenes. “We aim to ensure lasting and sustainable peace,” she told reporters. Indonesia has offered to deploy up to 20,000 troops to assist with health and reconstruction responsibilities. Indonesian Defense Ministry spokesperson Rico Suryat said preparations are underway and the organizational structure of the force is being finalized.
The UN Security Council has authorized the force to work with newly trained and vetted Palestinian police to stabilize security in Gaza. The plan includes demilitarizing Gaza by dismantling militant infrastructure, preventing reconstruction, and permanently disabling weapons held by non-state armed groups. However, the practical implementation of this process remains uncertain.
Read more: UNSC approves US plan authorising int’l stabilisation force in Gaza
Meanwhile, Hamas stated that no formal discussion has taken place regarding disarmament, emphasizing that it will not lay down arms until a Palestinian state is established. Separately, eight Muslim and Arab countries—including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, and Qatar—issued a joint statement reaffirming support for UNRWA, highlighting its crucial role in protecting and assisting Palestinian refugees. This statement comes amid reports that the Trump administration is considering labeling UNRWA as a terrorist organization.