December 13, 2025 | 01:44 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - International forces could be deployed in the Gaza Strip as early as next month or January 2026 to form a UN-sanctioned stabilization force, according to two US officials cited by Arab News and CNA. It remains unclear how Palestinian militant group Hamas would be disarmed under the plan.
The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the International Stabilization Force (ISF) would not engage in combat with Hamas.
They added that multiple countries have expressed interest in contributing personnel, and US officials are currently considering the ISF’s size, composition, housing, training, and rules of engagement.
A two-star US general is being considered to lead the force, but no final decision has been made.
The deployment of these forces represents a key component of the next phase of the Gaza peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump.
Under the first phase, a fragile ceasefire in the two-year conflict began on October 10, with Hamas releasing hostages and Israel releasing detained Palestinians. However, sporadic attacks have continued, contributing to civilian casualties in Gaza.
“There is a lot of quiet planning that’s going on behind the scenes right now for phase two of the peace deal,” White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.
“We want to ensure an enduring and lasting peace.”
Indonesia Prepares Troops
Indonesia has indicated readiness to deploy up to 20,000 personnel to support health, reconstruction, and humanitarian tasks in Gaza.
“This is still in the planning and preparation stage,” said Rico Sirait, a spokesperson for the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. “We are currently preparing the organizational structure of the forces to be deployed.”
Currently, Israel controls about 53 percent of Gaza, while most of the territory is under Hamas administration. US officials said the plan calls for Israeli forces to gradually withdraw from Palestinian areas as the ISF establishes stability, following standards, milestones, and timelines for demilitarization.
A UN Security Council resolution adopted on November 17 authorized the Peace Council and cooperating countries to form the ISF. President Trump said early next year he would announce which world leaders would serve on the council.
Challenges Remain
Despite the ceasefire, living conditions in Gaza have remained difficult, with strict restrictions on aid deliveries affecting humanitarian relief.
International monitors have warned that sustained access to food, medical supplies, and essential services is critical to preventing further humanitarian crises.
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