Rabat – Hamas has signaled it is open to the deployment of foreign forces in the Gaza Strip, provided they do not interfere in the territory’s internal affairs, a spokesperson for the Palestinian movement said on Friday.
Speaking to AFP, Hazem Qassem, a spokesperson for Hamas, outlined the group’s position on a potential international presence in Gaza amid ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and stabilize the territory after months of war with Israel.
“Our position on international forces is clear: we want peacekeeping forces that monitor the ceasefire, ensure its implementation, and act as a buffer between the Israeli occupation army and our people in the Gaza Strip, without interfering in internal affairs,” Qassem said.
His remarks come as part of a broader diplomatic initiative led by US President Donald Trump aimed at ending the war between Israel and Hamas. The proposed plan includes the creation of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) to be deployed in Gaza.
The formation of the ISF was discussed during the inaugural meeting of a newly established “Peace Council” held Thursday in Washington. According to officials involved in the discussions, the US-commanded force could include up to 20,000 troops, with 8,000 expected to come from Indonesia.
US General Jasper Jeffers, who has been appointed to lead the stabilization force, announced that five countries have already committed to contributing troops. Among them is Morocco, alongside other unnamed states.
In parallel to the proposed military deployment, efforts are also underway to rebuild Gaza’s internal security apparatus. Nikolaï Mladenov, the newly appointed High Representative for Gaza, revealed during the Washington meeting that recruitment has begun for a new Palestinian police force in the territory. He said that 2,000 volunteers have already come forward.
Egypt and Jordan have pledged to assist with training the new police force, in a move aimed at restoring order and preventing further instability.
Qassem said Hamas does not oppose the formation and training of Palestinian police units, provided their mission is to maintain internal security in Gaza and counter what he described as efforts by Israel and affiliated militias to sow chaos in the enclave.
The proposed stabilization force and accompanying security reforms mark a significant shift in international engagement with Gaza. However, the success of the initiative will likely depend on delicate negotiations over sovereignty, security responsibilities, and the long-term political future of the territory.
