Arab nations have shown flexibility in their stance, now considering the potential deployment of a multinational peacekeeping force in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank as part of a post-conflict resolution in the region. The Financial Times reported this shift, citing unnamed Arab diplomats.
According to one source, several Arab states have softened their position on deploying peacekeeping forces in the Palestinian territories in recent weeks. Previously, these states insisted on Palestinian self-governance in Gaza and opposed the introduction of international or regional forces. However, they are now open to sending peacekeeping troops as a demonstration of their commitment to the regional peace process.
While the idea has gained traction, the specific nations supporting it remain unclear. As per one source, Egypt is currently the only state endorsing the peacekeeping initiative, while Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Qatar are against deploying Arab peacekeepers to Gaza.
Furthermore, any deployment would require approval from the UN Security Council (UNSC), as noted by another source. Temporary deployment is seen as a measure to provide the Palestinian authorities with time to develop their own competent security forces.
Mahmoud al-Habbash, a Palestinian presidential adviser, stated on May 2 that the possibility of Arab military presence in Gaza could be discussed once the current round of escalation subsides.
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Based on materials from TASS