Burundi and Uganda Plan Troop Deployment to Gaza as Part of Stabilization Force

Burundi has decided to join the International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, planning to send between 500 and 800 soldiers. Uganda is also preparing to send approximately 1,200 troops in stages, according to a Burundian diplomat speaking to N12. If finalized, these deployments would represent the largest contingents for the ISF to date. Officers from both nations recently visited the Rafah area in Gaza to assess potential participation.

For Burundi, a country often cited as the world's poorest, the decision is driven by potential economic benefits. Soldiers will receive salaries and compensation for injuries or fatalities, with additional funding for training and expenses. Michael Fichtenberg, former honorary consul of Burundi in Israel, noted that even modest sums can be significant for a country with an average monthly wage of a few dozen dollars. A Burundian source indicated that the Peace Council, an international body, proposed the mission to Burundi and will be responsible for paying the troops.

Improved relations with the United States are also a key factor, with a diplomat stating, "Washington is definitely happy that we are joining." Burundi also aims to enhance its international reputation, drawing on its experience in African peacekeeping missions, including deployments in Somalia and the Central African Republic. "We know how to fight rebels," a diplomat commented.

Burundi's relationship with Israel is described as very good, with former Israeli Ambassador to Burundi, Aleli Adamu, highlighting strengthened cooperation in energy and agriculture. Fichtenberg also observed strong pro-Israel sentiment among the Burundian population. Burundi typically maintains a neutral stance in African politics but anticipates expanding cooperation with Israel in healthcare, agriculture, technology, and security, expecting "dividends" from its participation.

Uganda and Burundi have a history of collaboration in African peacekeeping. While both nations are considered undemocratic with human rights concerns, their potential alliance is being called a "package deal." Currently, five countries have officially joined the ISF: Bosnia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Albania, and Indonesia, with others in negotiations. The goal is to assemble a 10,000-strong force, but significant progress on deployment is not expected before the October elections. The ISF's mandate is to become the sole armed force in Gaza, control surrendered Hamas weapons, and monitor a ceasefire.