Kosovo needed international law to survive. Now it's helping Israel bypass it in Gaza

Kosovo once sought international law for its survival, but now finds itself aiding Israel's bypass of such laws in Gaza. In a controversial move, Kosovo recently signed up for US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace and the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) for Gaza. The Board hailed this as a "landmark" event, touting Kosovo's commitment to the ISF's mission and its ongoing support for President Trump's 20-Point Peace Plan.

However, Kosovo's involvement has sparked controversy within its predominantly Muslim population, with protests opposing the partnership with Israel. Prime Minister Albin Kurti, previously a left-leaning figure, now appears to align with US-Israeli interests, despite Kosovo's past reliance on international forces to protect its own citizens during the 1999 conflict.

Kosovo's decision may appear politically motivated, but conflict experts argue it lacks credibility, given the US's support for Israel's current actions in Gaza. Major General Jasper Jeffers and Lieutenant General Bashkim Jashari, commanding officers of the ISF and Kosovo Security Force, respectively, signed Kosovo's inclusion in the ISF on September 7, 2026.

This move could expose both Kosovar soldiers and the government to significant legal and reputational risks, as Israel faces a potential genocide case at the International Court of Justice, of which Kosovo is a member.