France plans to join international stabilization force for Gaza

France has officially declared its commitment to contribute to an international stabilization force designed to maintain security in the Gaza Strip under a US-brokered ceasefire framework. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pascal Confavreux confirmed multiple nations have expressed willingness to join the force, which would operate alongside redeployed Palestinian security units within the territory.

UN Security Council Authorization Process

France, in coordination with British and American partners, intends to submit a draft resolution to the UN Security Council within days to establish legal authorization for the stabilization mission. Confavreux emphasized that a formal Security Council mandate would provide stronger international legal foundation and encourage broader participation from additional countries in the multinational force.

Operational Framework and Palestinian Role

The stabilization initiative centers on three core components, beginning with the return of Palestinian security forces to Gaza to assume primary security responsibilities. The French spokesperson noted that precise operational parameters, mechanisms, and national contributions require definition through the UN mandate process before implementation can proceed systematically.

Humanitarian and Reconstruction Planning

France and Egypt are coordinating a humanitarian conference scheduled for late November featuring dual focus areas: fundraising for immediate humanitarian needs and planning for Gaza's comprehensive reconstruction. Confavreux declined to specify France's potential troop contributions to the stabilization force, noting that equipment and financial support discussions would follow mandate approval.

Regional Ceasefire Compliance

The French spokesperson strongly condemned civilian casualties from recent Israeli strikes in Lebanon despite ceasefire agreements. He urged Israel to fully implement its November 2024 ceasefire commitments, including complete military withdrawal from southern Lebanon by January 2025, particularly from five positions where Israeli forces maintain presence.