US envoy backs Turkish role in international Gaza stabilization force

The United States' special envoy has publicly supported including Türkiye in an international stabilization force planned for postwar Gaza. U.S. Ambassador and Special Envoy Tom Barrack pointed to Türkiye's substantial military capacity and its unique diplomatic lines to Hamas as key assets for the mission.

Rationale for Turkish Involvement

Speaking at a conference, Barrack highlighted Türkiye's potential to de-escalate tensions. "Our suggestion was that since the Turks have the largest and most effective ground troop operation in the region, and since they have a dialogue with Hamas, perhaps that would be beneficial as part of the force to cool the temperature," Barrack said. The proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF) is part of the framework established by UN Resolution 2803, which outlines Gaza's transitional governance.

Türkiye's Readiness and Diplomatic Coordination

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has signaled Ankara's willingness to participate, stating last week that Türkiye is prepared to "do whatever it takes" to support peace. He noted that several countries desire Türkiye's involvement for its potential to lend legitimacy and play a leading role. Fidan added that Türkiye is coordinating on post-war arrangements with partners like Indonesia and Azerbaijan and is open to contributing troops, contingent on a consensus among all relevant stakeholders.

Context of the Ceasefire and Transition Plan

The calls for an international force follow the implementation of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that halted over two years of devastating conflict in Gaza. The first phase of the agreement involved hostage exchanges and prisoner releases, with future phases aiming at reconstruction and establishing a new administrative mechanism for the enclave, as outlined in the UN-backed plan.