International force to begin arriving in Gaza early 2026; Yemen considers participation

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (YPA) – A US official has anticipated that the first contingent of the Multinational International Force, authorized by the UN Security Council under Resolution 2803, will begin arriving in the Gaza Strip in early 2026.

This force is intended to support US President Donald Trump’s plan to end the war and assist with post-ceasefire arrangements in the Strip.

Israeli channel ‘i24 News’ quoted the official saying that five countries have shown interest in participating, with Azerbaijan and Indonesia speculated to be among the likely candidates.

Consultations are underway to secure the necessary funding for the force, alongside contacts with Arab and European nations to contribute to the mission.

Washington has approached the internationally recognized Yemeni government with a request to join the planned international force. Government sources confirmed that a final decision has not yet been made, suggesting that any potential participation, if approved, would be “symbolic and limited,” possibly confined to logistical roles in operation rooms.

The EU is preparing to expand its security role in Gaza to support the US peace plan. The EU Police Mission in the West Bank (EUPOL COPPS) is expected to lead the establishment of a new Palestinian police force in Gaza, which includes training around 3,000 security personnel in the medium term, and will operate in coordination with the international stabilization mission.

YPA