Morocco joins Gaza stabilization force with military deployment plans

Morocco has formalized its participation in the planned International Stabilization Force for Gaza by signing a landmark agreement in Rabat. The ceremony, held in the presence of Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, senior defense officials, and Nikolai Mladenov, Gaza Peace Council representative, marked a significant step in regional security collaboration.

The agreement underscores Morocco’s commitment to fostering stability through both humanitarian and security measures in Gaza. Rabat’s contribution will include senior officers, gendarmerie members, and police personnel, alongside the establishment of a mobile military field hospital. This deployment reflects the Kingdom’s strategic role in supporting peacekeeping efforts in the Middle East.

The agreement, though largely procedural, builds on Morocco’s earlier pledge in February to provide personnel—making it the first Arab nation to publicly commit to the force. Moroccan officers have since been stationed at the force’s headquarters in southern Israel, contributing to preparatory operations.

While Albania, Kazakhstan, and Kosovo have also pledged support, Morocco is positioned to be the first country to deploy troops on the ground. Under the proposed framework, Moroccan forces will play a key role in securing the boundaries of a pilot humanitarian zone in Rafah, southern Gaza. This area is intended to house temporary shelters and critical aid infrastructure under international protection.

However, deployment timelines remain uncertain. Israel must finalize legal status agreements with contributing nations before foreign troops can enter Gaza. Additionally, the Rafah humanitarian zone’s construction has no confirmed start date, with plans possibly delayed until early 2027.

In the interim, small delegations from participating countries continue preparations from a base in southern Israel. The force’s ultimate mission—supporting Gaza’s security transition—hinges on complex discussions involving Hamas disarmament, Israel Defense Forces’ gradual withdrawal, and the territory’s civilian administration.