Blurs

The proposed International Stabilisation Force (ISF) is one of the most ambitious and controversial elements of the international plan for Gaza. It is intended to help create the security conditions for a transition from wartime control towards Palestinian civilian administration, while supporting a ceasefire, protecting civilians and humanitarian operations, and assisting with the removal of military infrastructure and weapons. On paper, the concept sounds straightforward: an international force enters Gaza, helps maintain order, supports the transition to Palestinian governance and eventually withdraws. In reality, almost every part of that plan raises difficult questions. Who will command the force? Which countries will send troops? What happens if armed groups refuse to disarm? How will international troops distinguish between peacekeeping and combat? And perhaps most importantly, can a foreign military force establish stability without becoming another party to the conflict? The a...