Turkey has indicated strong interest in participating in the proposed international stabilization force for Gaza, positioning itself as a key Muslim-majority nation willing to contribute peacekeepers. However, Turkish involvement faces significant obstacles, as Israel views Ankara’s participation unfavorably, creating diplomatic tensions that could complicate force composition.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told the Doha Forum that discussions about the stabilization force continue, with critical questions remaining regarding command structure and contributing nations. Turkey’s eagerness to participate reflects its broader Middle Eastern policy objectives and desire to play a constructive role in regional conflict resolution. Yet Israeli objections highlight the political sensitivities surrounding international force composition.
Fidan articulated priorities for the stabilization force, suggesting its first goal should be separating Palestinians from Israelis to prevent violent encounters. This operational focus contrasts with proposals emphasizing Hamas disarmament or Israeli security concerns. Turkey’s approach prioritizes immediate de-escalation and physical separation over more politically charged objectives.
The Turkish foreign minister also warned that without American intervention with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the entire peace plan risks failure. He characterized the volume of Israeli ceasefire violations as indescribable, suggesting that all indicators point toward significant breakdown risk. This assessment places responsibility for plan success squarely on enforcing Israeli compliance.
Turkey serves as one of the truce guarantors alongside Qatar and Egypt, giving it formal standing in implementation discussions. However, this status does not guarantee Turkish forces’ inclusion in the stabilization contingent. The tension between Turkey’s willingness to contribute and Israeli resistance illustrates broader challenges in assembling an internationally acceptable peacekeeping coalition for this sensitive deployment.