Turkey and Egypt have declined to participate in the US-proposed Gaza Peace Force, which Washington plans to present at the United Nations later this month, citing concerns over its mandate and structure.
Egypt told US officials that the proposed force “will not do the job Israel was unable to do,” expressing doubts about its ability to maintain security and raising concerns over the potential use of force to disarm Hamas. Cairo emphasized that any international deployment in Gaza must operate under UN oversight rather than a US-led framework.
Turkish officials similarly criticized the plan, warning that it effectively treats peacekeepers as an “occupation police force,” tasked with performing Israel’s security objectives. Ankara has insisted that the force should fall under UN authority rather than the US “Board of Peace.”
The US plan envisions a multinational force gradually taking over security responsibilities in Gaza following a fragile ceasefire. Troops were expected from Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, and possibly the UAE. The latest objections from Cairo and Ankara highlight the diplomatic and operational challenges of assembling a credible international mission.
Analysts say the refusal of Egypt and Turkey underscores regional sensitivities surrounding Gaza, where powers remain cautious about being seen enforcing Israeli security aims. The US is expected to continue consultations with other potential contributors before presenting the plan at the UN later this month.
Leave a comment