Uganda, Burundi Explore Gaza Troop Deployment As US Backed Force Faces Major Gaps

Military officials from Uganda and Burundi visited Israel last week to discuss possible troop deployments to Gaza as part of the US backed International Stabilisation Force envisioned under President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace.

Ugandan officials joined a Burundian military delegation during the visit, with discussions reportedly including the practical requirements of the proposed mission. Uganda is finalising its participation after parliament approved the deployment of about 1,200 personnel earlier this month. Burundi has not yet reached a final agreement, but a senior military official said the country appeared intent on joining.

The proposed force is expected to eventually number 20,000 personnel and would be commanded by US Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers. Its responsibilities would include monitoring the Gaza ceasefire, helping train Palestinian police and securing humanitarian aid deliveries. However, troop commitments remain far below the target. Morocco has pledged up to 500 personnel, while Kosovo, Kazakhstan and Albania have together committed about 80.

Indonesia had previously indicated it was preparing to send 8,000 troops, the largest proposed contribution, but put the deployment on hold following US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Egypt and Jordan are expected to contribute through police training rather than major troop deployments.

There has nevertheless been financial movement. The US has allocated more than $206 million for the proposed force, including $200 million for infrastructure, equipment and operations and another $6 million to repurpose US armoured vehicles. The funding comes despite continuing political obstacles to the wider Gaza plan.

A major stumbling block remains the disagreement over Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal. Hamas has accepted the US backed roadmap, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected withdrawal from areas controlled by Israel until Hamas is completely disarmed. Recent talks involving Trump’s envoy Jared Kushner failed to secure a breakthrough.

Uganda and Burundi also bring extensive peacekeeping experience in Somalia, where their forces have spent years fighting al Shabab alongside African Union missions. Analysts say both countries may see participation in Gaza as a way to maintain military operations and secure international financial and material support.