Uganda and Burundi military officials visit Israel to discuss Gaza troop deployment

Military officials from Uganda and Burundi journeyed to Israel last week to discuss the deployment of troops to Gaza as part of a proposed international security force, according to sources. A Board of Peace official revealed that the Ugandan delegation consisted of officials who had just secured parliamentary approval for their contribution.

The official also noted that Burundi's military delegation, led by three senior officers, expressed interest in joining the force. While Burundi's official participation remains unconfirmed, the officials emphasized their eagerness to begin the process. The specifics of Uganda's and Burundi's contributions, as well as any potential reciprocation, remain undisclosed.

No spokespersons from the militaries responded to inquiries. If Burundi proceeds, it would be the latest African nation to commit to the international force in Gaza, following Morocco, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, and Albania. Currently, Uganda plans to contribute around 1,200 personnel, while Morocco has committed up to 500 troops. Combined, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, and Albania have pledged approximately 80 troops.

Indonesia had promised to deploy 8,000 troops, the most substantial commitment, but suspended its plans following the U.S. and Israel's strikes on Iran. The envisioned 20,000-strong force would be under the command of U.S. Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers. The proposed force would be tasked with monitoring the ceasefire, training Palestinian police, and ensuring the delivery of aid to the region.

The ceasefire in Gaza, implemented in October, has been disrupted by disputes over Israel's withdrawal from Gaza and Hamas' disarmament. Last month, a US delegation met with Hamas leader and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to push for the deal. Hamas has agreed to the terms, but Netanyahu has refused to withdraw from 60% of the territory he controls in Gaza until Hamas is completely disarmed.

Even after Netanyahu's meeting with the US team, which included negotiator Jared Kushner, Israel has not provided a definitive response. Paul D. Williams, director of the security policy studies program at The George Washington University, highlighted Uganda and Burundi's extensive peacekeeping experience, particularly in Somalia, where they have been part of an African Union force battling al-Shabab.

With the Somalia mission winding down, both nations are exploring ways to bolster their militaries financially and materially, and deployment to Gaza with US support could serve as one avenue.