On July 16, 2026, the US-backed Board of Peace announced that Morocco has officially signed its Participating Country Agreement with the International Stabilization Force (ISF). This development, long anticipated, is pivotal for the Board as it continues its efforts to stabilize the situation in Gaza. Currently, Hamas maintains control over approximately 30-40% of the Gaza Strip, leaving around two million civilians under its regime. Morocco’s involvement is particularly significant as it follows the recent inclusion of members from the Kosovo Security Force into the ISF, which was announced just days prior on July 12.
For the civilians in Gaza to have a real chance of escaping the oppressive rule of Hamas, there is an urgent need for both reconstruction and security measures. This necessitates the establishment of an alternative Palestinian government to replace Hamas, as well as the presence of an international force to ensure stability and security in the region. The US plan to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which had managed to secure a ceasefire in October 2025, has faced numerous challenges. The Trump administration has been diligently working to implement the peace plan, which continues to encounter various obstacles.
President Donald Trump has highlighted the complexities of the situation, particularly regarding Israel’s military operations within Syria, which extend beyond the ceasefire line established in 1974. The White House is tasked with managing multiple diplomatic challenges, including negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, as well as managing relations with Syria, all while attempting to mitigate threats from Iran. The Board of Peace plays a crucial role in this broader initiative aimed at stabilizing Gaza and creating conditions conducive to peace.
Following the US plan's endorsement by the United Nations, it was anticipated that around five countries would contribute to the International Stabilization Force. Morocco's contingent is part of this coalition, with a commitment to support humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza and assist in training the Palestinian Police Force. The Board of Peace expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI for Morocco's steadfast dedication to regional stability and security and for leading efforts to support the people of Gaza.
Morocco's participation is especially noteworthy given its membership in the Abraham Accords, which it joined following the UAE and Bahrain's initial agreements in 2020. The roles of both Kosovo and Morocco are expected to be significant in the ongoing efforts for peace, and other nations, including Kazakhstan and Albania, may also contribute. The ISF has welcomed new members from the Kosovo Security Force, who will aid in logistics and civil affairs related to the Gaza security operations.
Moreover, key discussions are taking place in Europe, with EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Suica, recently meeting with Aryeh Lightstone from the Board of Peace in Brussels. Suica emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to facilitate Gaza's recovery and the need for practical progress in implementing the Gaza Peace Plan. This sentiment was echoed in her discussions about the necessity of establishing a secure governance framework, disarming Hamas, and ensuring access to aid for the Palestinian population.
As the international community rallies to support Gaza's transition, it is evident that Morocco's growing engagement with the Board of Peace and its role in the ISF are critical components in the path forward. The commitment of nations like Morocco, along with the logistical and humanitarian efforts of the ISF, is poised to bring hope and stability to a region long plagued by conflict. The collaboration among these nations reflects a broader strategy to foster peace and security in Gaza, which is essential for the realization of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 and President Trump's Comprehensive Peace Plan. The efforts of the IDF to target Hamas operatives and the ongoing operations of the Civil-Military Coordination Center further illustrate the multifaceted approach to addressing the humanitarian needs in Gaza.
As reported by jpost.com.
