Against Israel's positions
Israeli Analysts and Officials Warn Against Reported Turkish Plan to Deploy Forces in Gaza
Turkey says they plan to deploy 2,000 troops to Gaza, already waiting for orders to ship out. Israel maintains their objection to Turkish participation in the effort.
Israel is voicing firm opposition to reported US interest in incorporating Turkish troops into an international stabilization force in Gaza, as Ankara signals readiness to send a substantial military contingent once a ceasefire implementation framework is finalized.
Israeli commentator Tzvi Yechezkeli warned that Turkish involvement would be a “historic mistake,” arguing that any Arab or international force entering the Strip would ultimately strengthen Hamas rather than confront it. He said reports from Turkey indicate that US officials have discussed the possibility of Turkish participation despite clear Israeli objections, and that Turkish units “have completed preparations and are awaiting orders.” Yecheskeli emphasized that Turkey is “the practical and spiritual father of Hamas,” and said its return to Gaza nearly a century after the end of Ottoman control would undermine Israeli security interests.
The warnings come as Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan outlined Ankara’s position during the Doha Forum in Qatar. Fidan said a realistic approach is needed for the international mission that would accompany a ceasefire, with the first priority being the separation of Israeli and Palestinian forces along the border. He confirmed that discussions are underway regarding a multinational stabilization force intended to secure humanitarian corridors and assist reconstruction, saying Turkey is prepared to “do whatever is required” if the mission receives a clear UN Security Council mandate.
According to Turkish media reports, Ankara has been assembling a specialized force of at least 2,000 soldiers drawn from units with prior peacekeeping experience. Turkish officials told Middle East Eye that the presence of Turkish troops would provide “balance and credibility on the ground.” Additional engineers, logistics personnel, and explosives teams are reportedly being considered.
Senior Israeli officials, however, said that Turkey's intentions are viewed as part of a broader effort to expand regional influence at Israel’s expense. “Turkey wants to present itself as a stabilizing force but is in fact working to erode Israel’s standing,” one official said. “This must not be allowed.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s opposition during a recent meeting with US Vice President JD Vance, calling the deployment of Turkish forces in Gaza a “red line.” Israeli officials say the final decision will be made in Washington, where President Donald Trump maintains a close personal relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
While Turkey presses for a central role, other states mentioned as potential contributors, including Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates, have publicly indicated they will not send troops under current conditions.