Burundi to Deploy Troops to Gaza as Part of International Stabilization Force

Burundi has decided to send between 500 and 800 soldiers to the international stabilization force in Gaza, with Uganda expected to contribute an additional 1,200 troops. This move represents a significant opportunity for Burundi, often described as one of the world's poorest nations, to improve its economic and diplomatic standing. Both African nations maintain strong relations with Israel.

Earlier this month, officers from Burundi and Uganda visited the Gaza Strip, including the Rafah area, to assess their potential participation in the International Stabilization Force (ISF). A Burundian diplomat confirmed to N12 that the decision to join the ISF has been made, with troops to be deployed in phases. If finalized, these contributions would be the largest to the ISF to date.

Burundi, a small Christian nation in East Africa, has extensive experience in peacekeeping missions, having previously deployed thousands of soldiers to missions in Somalia and the Central African Republic. An informed source told N12 that Burundi possesses "stamina" for troop losses in international missions, making it an attractive candidate. "We know how to fight rebels," a local diplomat stated.

The motivations for Burundi's deployment are multifaceted. The Burundian diplomat explained that there are economic incentives, as the country would receive salaries, compensation for injuries or deaths, and additional funding for training and needs. Michael Fichtenberg, former Honorary Consul of Burundi in Israel, noted that even small sums can be highly significant in Burundi, where the average monthly wage is very low. The Peace Council is reportedly responsible for paying the soldiers.

Another Burundian official added that the Peace Council approached Burundi to join the force, citing the country's relationship with the United States as a key reason. While a formal agreement is still pending, the official anticipates Burundi's participation. Improving relations with the U.S. is a primary objective, with Washington reportedly pleased about Burundi's potential involvement. Burundi also hopes to enhance its international reputation and standing through this deployment.

Relations between Israel and Burundi are described as "very good," including joint projects in energy and agriculture. Eliel Admasu, Israel's former ambassador to Burundi, called the country "friendly" and "reliable." Fichtenberg highlighted the surprising level of support for Israel in Burundi. He also characterized Burundi's political stance in Africa as "neutral," often avoiding direct involvement in unrelated issues, which positions it well for a peacekeeping role.

Burundi anticipates expanding cooperation with Israel in areas such as health, agriculture, and technology, alongside increased security collaboration, should the international force be deployed. The parallel progress with Uganda is not surprising, as both are close allies with a history of joint peacekeeping operations in Africa, with the Burundian diplomat referring to them as a "package deal."

Uganda's army chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has expressed pro-Israel sentiments and willingness to send troops. Reports of advanced talks with Uganda regarding force participation emerged two months ago. Both Uganda and Burundi are non-democratic nations with documented human rights violations.

The potential deployment of Ugandan and Burundian troops reflects ongoing efforts by the Peace Council to advance the Trump plan for Gaza. While five countries have officially joined the force, and others are in talks, the ISF is still far from its target of 10,000 soldiers. Significant progress on deploying the force to Gaza is not expected before the October elections. The ISF is intended to be the sole armed military force in Gaza, responsible for securing Hamas's stored weapons and ensuring a ceasefire.