Burundi and Uganda to Lead International Gaza Stabilization Force

Burundi has made a principled decision to join the International Stabilization Force (ISF) in the Gaza Strip, with the African nation expected to deploy between 500 and 800 soldiers. This development follows a visit by Burundian and Ugandan officers to Gaza and the Rafah area to assess the situation on the ground. Uganda is also set to contribute approximately 1,200 additional soldiers in stages, making these two countries the largest contributors to the force to date.

For Burundi, where the average monthly salary is only tens of dollars, this deployment represents a significant economic opportunity. The Peace Council is slated to cover soldier salaries, equipment, training, and compensation. Beyond financial gains, Burundi hopes to enhance its international standing with the U.S. administration and strengthen security and civilian cooperation with Israel.

Burundi possesses extensive experience in challenging peacekeeping missions across Africa, including combatting rebel groups in Somalia and the Central African Republic. Israeli officials describe relations with both Burundi and Uganda as "very good" and close, facilitating their integration into the force.

The ISF's mandate, according to the Peace Council's framework, is to be the sole armed authority in Gaza, overseeing the ceasefire and arms storage. Despite the commitment from these African nations, alongside countries like Bosnia, Morocco, and Kazakhstan, the force remains considerably short of its initial target of 10,000 personnel.