US grateful as Pakistan considers role in Gaza stabilisation force

US grateful as Pakistan considers role in Gaza stabilisation force

The United States has expressed appreciation to Pakistan for considering participation in a proposed international stabilisation force for Gaza, as Washington works to shape a post-conflict framework aimed at preventing chaos and supporting long-term peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said discussions with Pakistan and several other countries are ongoing but remain at an early stage, with critical questions about the mission’s mandate, funding structure, and operational authority yet to be resolved.

“We’re very grateful to Pakistan for their offer to be a part of it, or at least for considering being part of it,” Rubio told reporters during his year-end press conference in Washington. He stressed, however, that potential contributors deserve clarity before making firm commitments.

According to Rubio, countries approached by the US want clear answers on the scope of responsibilities, rules of engagement, and financing mechanisms for any force deployed to Gaza. “We owe them more answers before we can ask anyone to commit firmly,” he said.

The proposed stabilisation force is part of broader US efforts to avoid a security vacuum in Gaza once active hostilities subside. American officials believe that without an international presence, the territory could descend into further instability, undermining any prospects for peace or civilian governance.

Rubio confirmed that Washington is currently developing a comprehensive framework for post-war administration in Gaza. This includes plans to establish a “Board of Peace” and a Palestinian technocratic body tasked with managing day-to-day governance, essential services, and reconstruction efforts.

“The immediate focus is on political and administrative mechanisms,” Rubio explained. “Once those structures are in place, we can finalise details of a stabilisation force, including how it will be funded, governed, and deployed.”

He added that discussions are also underway regarding the force’s potential role in demilitarisation and maintaining law and order, though no final decisions have been made. The goal, according to US officials, is to ensure that any multinational presence is acceptable to all key stakeholders involved in the conflict.

Rubio expressed confidence that several nations are willing to participate, provided the mission is clearly defined and politically viable. “I feel very confident that we have a number of nation-states acceptable to all sides who are willing to step forward,” he said, noting that Pakistan’s participation would be significant if Islamabad ultimately agrees.

Pakistan has previously contributed troops to UN peacekeeping missions around the world and is regarded as an experienced player in multinational security operations. However, officials in Washington acknowledged that Islamabad, like other potential contributors, will carefully weigh political, security, and diplomatic considerations before making a decision.

The US initiative reflects growing international urgency to stabilise Gaza after months of devastating conflict. While details remain fluid, American officials say the success of any post-war plan depends on credible governance structures, regional cooperation, and a robust international commitment to peace and security.

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