Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israel would decide which foreign forces would be permitted to join an international force in Gaza intended to help maintain a delicate ceasefire as part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s initiative. The participation of Arab and other nations in providing troops remains uncertain, partly due to Hamas militants’ reluctance to disarm as stipulated in the plan, as well as Israel’s reservations about the composition of the force.
Although the Trump administration has ruled out deploying U.S. soldiers to Gaza, discussions have been held with countries such as Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and Azerbaijan to contribute to the multinational force. Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s control over its security and the country’s authority in determining which foreign forces are unacceptable, a stance supported by senior U.S. officials.
Last week, Netanyahu suggested opposition to involving Turkish security forces in Gaza, reflecting the strained Turkish-Israeli relations following Erdogan’s criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Israel, which imposed a blockade on Gaza during its military operations against Hamas in response to a cross-border attack in 2023, continues to regulate access to the region.
Hamas announced an expanded search for the remains of hostages in Gaza, with Egyptian assistance deployed for recovery efforts. The U.S.-brokered ceasefire stipulates the swift return of Israeli hostages’ remains by Hamas, with Israel agreeing to repatriate Palestinian bodies in exchange. Despite returning some hostages’ remains, delays have occurred, and challenges persist due to the extensive destruction in Gaza.
Future stages of the ceasefire plan involve disarming Hamas and addressing governance issues in Gaza, where humanitarian aid access remains a key concern. Media access to Gaza is restricted, with Israel affirming the current limitations. Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya disclosed ongoing search operations for remaining hostages’ bodies in new locations within Gaza.
President Trump expressed vigilance in monitoring Hamas’ compliance with returning hostages’ remains, urging expedited efforts. Hamas cited difficulties in retrieval due to widespread destruction. An Egyptian team entered Gaza with equipment to support ceasefire mediation efforts, aiming to maintain the peace agreement.
Netanyahu defended Israeli military actions following strikes in Gaza, emphasizing preemptive measures to counter threats. Hamas denounced the strikes as ceasefire violations and accused Netanyahu of undermining U.S. peace efforts. Israel’s security autonomy was reaffirmed by Netanyahu amid speculation over U.S. influence on Gaza security matters.
Israel’s previous military actions in Nuseirat on Oct. 19 escalated tensions, resulting in casualties, including civilians. The conflict has claimed numerous Palestinian lives, though exact figures remain disputed.