Morocco to host first Gaza multinational force drills: reports

Morocco is reportedly preparing to host the first drills for a multinational force expected to deploy to Gaza under a US-backed post-war plan. Drills for a proposed multinational force in Gaza are set to begin in Morocco under a reported US-backed post-war plan [Getty] Morocco is set to host the first training exercise for a planned multinational force expected to operate in Gaza under a US-backed post-war plan, according to Israeli media. Israel's public broadcaster Kan 11 reported that the foundational exercise will take place in the coming weeks as part of US President Donald Trump's proposed peace plan for Gaza. Representatives from the US-led command headquarters in Kiryat Gat have reportedly travelled to Rabat to coordinate the first joint military exercise with the Moroccan armed forces. The programme will reportedly include live-fire exercises, physical fitness training and other operational drills, with Morocco expected to train thousands of troops for future deployment in the enclave. The reports said Morocco had recently joined the proposed International Stabilisation Force (ISF) but is now expected to play what Israeli security officials described as a "very significant" role in Gaza's future security arrangements. Around 500 Moroccan soldiers are expected to join the force alongside troops from Kosovo, Kazakhstan and Albania. They would initially be tasked with securing the planned "New Rafah" city, a development expected to be built by the United Arab Emirates and designated as a "Hamas-free" zone. Israeli outlet JFeed reported that Morocco had become one of the leading contributors to the initiative, with the ISF ultimately expected to comprise around 20,000 troops and 12,000 trained police officers. The first deployment would focus on the Rafah area before expanding elsewhere in Gaza. The reports differ over Indonesia's involvement. Kan 11 said Jakarta has yet to formally join the force despite previously indicating it could contribute around 800 troops, while JFeed listed Indonesia among the countries that have pledged personnel. No official timetable has been announced for the deployment, although Kan 11 said foreign troops could enter Gaza as early as next year. Neither Morocco, the United States nor the other countries named in the reports have publicly confirmed the plans. Related Articles