Kosovo Assembly approves sending troops to Gaza

(Patria) - Members of the Kosovo Assembly today approved the government's proposal to send members of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) to Gaza, as part of the International Stabilization Forces.

The proposal, which required a two-thirds majority, was adopted with 89 votes in favor, none against, and no abstentions.

For this decision to take effect, it must be signed by the President of Kosovo, in this case acting President Albulena Haxhiu, who is a member of the ruling Vetëvendosje Movement.

Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci said that this decision further strengthens Kosovo's international profile, affirms the professionalism of the KSF, and places Kosovo among countries that not only benefit from international security but also contribute to maintaining peace and the international order.

- Through this engagement, Kosovo proves that it is a reliable and responsible partner, ready to act together with allies in support of peace, security, civilian protection, and international mandates - said Maqedonci.

The Kosovo government approved the Defense Ministry's proposal to send KSF members to Gaza on March 30.

KSF troops are expected to operate within the International Stabilization Forces, a mechanism created as part of the Peace Committee initiative, proposed by US President Donald Trump, with the aim of achieving peace in the world.

Kosovo is among the first five countries - together with Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, and Albania - that have committed to engaging in this mission, with the goal of ensuring security and monitoring the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

However, it is not yet known exactly when the troops will be deployed or what their number will be.

In addition to the authorization for troop deployment, the Assembly must also approve the agreement on Kosovo's membership in the Peace Committee.

Former President of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, who was among the founders of the Peace Committee, publicly supported the initiative. Her presidential term expired on April 4.

According to reports from the Israeli public broadcaster KAN, the International Stabilization Forces are expected to begin deployment in Gaza in May, including dozens of soldiers from Kosovo, although institutions in Pristina have not officially confirmed that deadline.

Kosovo's Defense Minister previously said that the initial plan is to send more than 20 soldiers specialized in various fields, including units for explosive ordnance disposal, special operations, planning, and medical teams.

Ministry officials announced that they are in constant coordination with the structures of the International Stabilization Forces, and that a liaison officer has been appointed to prepare for the deployment.