East African troops prepare for Gaza peacekeeping role in US-backed plan

Military officials from Uganda and Burundi visited Israel last week to discuss deploying troops to Gaza. This potential deployment is part of an international security force envisioned by US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” to support a fragile ceasefire. Uganda has finalized details for its participation after its parliament approved the troop contribution this month. While nothing has been finalized with Burundi, officials expressed optimism about beginning the process. The article does not provide further details on the specific role or timeline for these troops.

Military officials from Uganda and Burundi visited Israel last week to discuss deploying troops to Gaza as part of an international security force proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump's Board of Peace. Uganda has finalized details for its participation after parliamentary approval, committing around 1,200 personnel. Burundi has expressed interest and sent a delegation, though nothing is finalized. If Burundi joins, these African nations would join Morocco, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, and Albania in contributing to the force, which aims to monitor a ceasefire, train Palestinian police, and secure aid delivery. The proposed 20,000-strong force, intended to facilitate a deal for Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal, faces slow progress as troop commitments remain significantly below the target.