Morocco Joins International Stabilization Force in Gaza

Rabat – Morocco is set to participate in the International Stabilization Force (ISF) tasked with maintaining peacekeeping in Gaza as part of the US-planned Phase II of the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, The Jerusalem Post reported on Monday.

Expanding International Involvement

Alongside Morocco, Albania and Greece are also expected to join the ISF, following Indonesia’s earlier commitment to the mission. This development comes ahead of a Peace Summit scheduled for Thursday, where the ISF’s role is expected to be a key discussion point.

US-Backed Resolution and ISF Mandate

The establishment of the ISF stems from a US-sponsored resolution passed by the UN Security Council in November of last year, supporting a plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza. The force’s primary objectives include overseeing the ceasefire agreement and ensuring its security.

Morocco’s Stance on the Gaza Conflict

Throughout the recent conflict, Morocco has consistently voiced its strong condemnation of the Israeli military campaign, advocating for restraint and a two-state solution. The nation has also actively contributed to humanitarian aid efforts and reaffirmed its support for an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Morocco has positioned itself as a potential mediator, leveraging its diplomatic ties with both Israel, and Palestine.

ISF Responsibilities and Phase II of the Plan

The multinational force is expected to play a crucial role in training Palestinian security services and securing Gaza’s borders. A significant aspect of the mission involves taking over security responsibilities currently managed by Hamas. Phase two of the US plan, announced in January by US envoy Steve Witkoff, focuses on the reconstruction and demilitarization of Gaza. The US has emphasized the expectation of full compliance from Hamas, warning of potential consequences for non-compliance.

Ongoing Challenges and International Concerns

Despite the progress towards a ceasefire, challenges remain. The UN has reported ongoing obstacles to humanitarian movements requiring coordination with Israeli authorities. The UN has condemned Israel’s resumption of land registration procedures in the occupied West Bank, citing concerns about potential dispossession of Palestinians and the expansion of Israeli control over the territory. The International Court of Justice has previously deemed Israel’s continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territory unlawful and destabilizing.

Historical Context: Morocco-Palestine Relations

Morocco and Palestine share a deep-rooted historical connection stemming from their common Arab heritage. The introduction of the Arabic language and Islam to North Africa originated from the Levant. However, following the decline of the Arab Caliphates in the 13th century, the paths of the two regions diverged, with Morocco establishing itself as an independent Arab-Berber kingdom while Palestine experienced periods of rule under the Mamluks, Persians, and the Ottoman Empire. Both nations later faced colonialism under Spanish, French, and British rule. More information on the historical relationship can be found on Wikipedia.