Why 3 Arab Countries Are Entering Gaza
Gaza, a region in the Middle East, has been in desperate need of humanitarian aid. The situation has prompted three Arab nations to form an international peacekeeping force to protect Gaza and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. This development, reported by multiple Israeli media outlets on March 28, suggests a potential leak of carefully orchestrated information.
The Urgency of Humanitarian Assistance in Gaza
Various aid groups have highlighted that Gaza is engulfed in a humanitarian crisis, with the northern region suffering severe isolation. According to reports, a significant portion of the approximately 300,000 people living in northern Gaza are surviving by consuming animal feed. The United Nations reports that every six children under the age of two in northern Gaza suffer from acute malnutrition. Overall, it is estimated that around 1.1 million people, nearly half of the Palestinian population, are experiencing a devastating food shortage.
The initial role of the international peacekeeping force will involve safeguarding aid convoys from extremist groups within Gaza, as well as protecting a U.S.-constructed aid port near the coast of Gaza, expected to be operational within a month.
Will the UAE and Egypt Join the Arab Coalition?
Initially, Arab allies of the United States were reluctant to participate in this peacekeeping mission. They asserted that they would not get involved in managing Gaza post-war unless it was part of a larger initiative, such as the establishment of a “Gaza Administration” – a pathway to a future Palestinian state. The current Israeli government staunchly opposes this provision.
However, all reports from March 28 indicate that Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant informed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of progress made during his recent trip to Washington. This idea reportedly received support from the Biden administration. The proposed international force may soon be armed to maintain law and order and work alongside non-Hamas affiliated individuals in Gaza, including those associated with the Palestinian Authority.
The peacekeeping force will consist of military personnel from three unnamed Arab countries, excluding long-time Hamas supporters Saudi Arabia and Qatar. While the United States will oversee the management of the force, notably, there will be no direct U.S. involvement.
The Road Ahead
Israeli officials’ visits to undisclosed Arab nations and negotiations with the U.S. Central Command have contributed to progress in these discussions. Politico reported that the Pentagon is advancing prospective plans to fund the peacekeeping force, but according to Haaretz, no specific agreements have been reached regarding arming the force.
Initially, Netanyahu opposed this idea, but Defense Minister Yoav Gallant believes it is the best available option. Eventually, the Tel Aviv government approved the plan. However, U.S. support will depend on Israel initiating the reconstruction of Gaza post-war, possibly through Gallant’s “Day After” plan presented three months ago.
This plan has not received backing from the alliance, as it proposes allowing Israel to maintain military control over Gaza while excluding a civilian presence. Civil affairs in the territory would be managed by non-hostile Palestinians. Additionally, the plan calls for long-term security stability in Gaza with assistance from multinational forces.
As the situation develops, it remains crucial to address the urgent humanitarian needs of Gaza and establish a sustainable path towards peace and prosperity.
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