JERUSALEM (VINnews) -- Israel's government has disclosed plans for a novel international peacekeeping force to deploy in Gaza, potentially including troops from Pakistan, Indonesia and Azerbaijan -- nations with no history of close collaboration with the Jewish state.
"This would be one of the most improbable international teams assembled in recent memory," a senior Israeli official said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive negotiations. "Enemies and rivals setting aside differences for the sake of peace -- it's rare, but necessary."
The war in Gaza, which erupted in October 2023, has claimed thousands of lives and left much of the territory in ruins. With hostilities now in a fragile lull, international mediators have intensified calls for a multinational presence to oversee rebuilding and deter spoilers.
Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim-majority nation, has already signaled its willingness to participate, according to diplomatic sources. Azerbaijan, which has deepened ties with Israel in recent years through energy and defense deals, appears ready to commit forces. Pakistan, long a staunch supporter of Palestinian causes and with no formal diplomatic relations with Israel, is the wildcard -- but preliminary talks suggest it could join imminently.
The inclusion of these countries would represent a seismic shift. Indonesia and Pakistan have historically viewed Israel through the lens of solidarity with Palestinians, while Azerbaijan has maintained pragmatic but limited engagement. Their involvement could lend legitimacy to the mission in the Arab and Muslim world, easing local suspicions and bolstering global buy-in.
"These nations stepping forward isn't just about boots on the ground," the official added. "It's a message that peace in Gaza transcends old fault lines."
Details on the force's size, mandate and timeline remain under negotiation, with the United Nations and Arab League expected to play supporting roles. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed the outlines but declined further comment, citing ongoing discussions.
If realized, the deployment could redefine regional dynamics, fostering unlikely partnerships at a time when Middle East alliances are in flux. As one analyst put it: "From rivals to reluctant partners -- Gaza might just be the unlikely forge."