Kosovo has prepared military personnel to join a US-led international force in Gaza, including a team tasked with clearing unexploded bombs, but their deployment remains on hold pending Israeli approval. Albania has also formally joined the initiative, pledging support for security operations and military planning.
The International Stabilization Force (ISF) forms part of US President Donald Trump’s post-ceasefire plan for Gaza. Authorised by a UN Security Council resolution in November 2025, the force is intended to secure Gaza’s borders, protect civilians and humanitarian aid, train vetted Palestinian police and support the disarmament of armed groups. It operates under US military command and reports to Trump’s Board of Peace.
Kosovo’s participation was approved by its parliament in April, and its contribution includes an explosive ordnance disposal team, a contingent commander serving as a liaison officer and additional staff. Kosovo formally signed its participation agreement on 7 September, and its defence ministry says its bomb-disposal team is ready to deploy once the force is prepared to receive it.
The mission has been delayed by disagreements over its implementation and the conditions imposed by Israel. The force’s eventual role will extend beyond clearing unexploded ordnance. It is also intended to support disarmament, train Palestinian police and protect humanitarian operations as part of the proposed transition in Gaza’s governance. However, the deployment timeline remains uncertain, and no international troops have yet begun operating inside the Strip.
