Morocco joins Gaza stabilization force with military deployment plan

Rabat — Morocco has formalized its commitment to participate in the International Stabilization Force destined for Gaza, signing a binding agreement in Rabat this week. The ceremony, held under high security, brought together Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, senior defense officials, and Nikolai Mladenov, the Gaza Peace Council’s envoy, along with the force’s commander designate.

The Moroccan Defense Administration confirmed that this engagement underscores a shared resolve to foster tangible humanitarian and security measures aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region. The deployment will include high-ranking officers, gendarmerie members, and police personnel, complemented by the establishment of a field military hospital in Gaza.

The agreement, while finalized now, follows an earlier pledge made in February when Morocco became the first Arab nation to publicly commit troops to the force. Moroccan officers have since been actively involved in preparatory operations at the force’s headquarters in southern Israel.

Alongside Morocco, Albania, Kazakhstan, and Kosovo have also pledged support for the initiative. However, Morocco may be the first to execute a full deployment. Under the proposed framework, Moroccan forces would be tasked with securing the boundaries of a proposed humanitarian zone near Rafah, in southern Gaza. This area is intended to provide temporary housing and critical infrastructure under the protection of the international force.

Deployment timelines remain uncertain. Israel must finalize bilateral agreements with each contributing nation to define the legal status of foreign troops in Gaza. Additionally, no construction schedule has been set for the Rafah humanitarian zone, with preliminary work potentially beginning no earlier than early 2027.

In the interim, small delegations from participating countries continue preparations from a base in southern Israel. The force’s mission includes facilitating a secure transition in Gaza, contingent upon negotiations over Hamas disarmament, the phased withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces, and the establishment of a civilian administration for the territory.