Netanyahu approves Gaza stabilization force deployment before Trump meeting

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved preliminary steps for deploying an International Stabilization Force (ISF) in the Gaza Strip, a move widely interpreted as a gesture to U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of their upcoming meeting.

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Israel, along with allies like the United States, is defending itself while also protecting the world.

The decision comes as Trump has increasingly emphasized the need for concrete actions to conclude the ongoing Gaza conflict, which erupted in October 2023. Netanyahu's security cabinet recently proposed allowing a limited deployment of approximately 200 ISF personnel, reportedly including soldiers from Morocco and Uganda, into a humanitarian zone in southern Rafah.

An Israeli official described the move as a "confidence-building measure towards President Trump," suggesting Netanyahu is softening his stance on Gaza's post-war governance to facilitate smoother cooperation with the U.S. on critical issues like Iran. Israel has historically insisted on managing Gaza exclusively with its own forces.

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This is a confidence-building measure towards President Trump.

The proposed ISF would be tasked with maintaining security and supporting aid efforts, filling a void left by Hamas. This development follows a fragile initial ceasefire agreement brokered by Trump last October, which has since stalled due to disagreements over the future administration and security of Gaza.

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We are having good conversations with Iran. I think there will be good things happening.

Meanwhile, President Trump expressed optimism about ongoing talks with Iran, stating, "We are having good conversations with Iran." He indicated a significant possibility of reaching an agreement but also warned of resuming military action if negotiations fail. The broader uncertainty surrounding the Iran conflict persists, with analysts noting that key issues between the U.S. and Iran remain unresolved, leaving both sides in a phase of weighing their next military and diplomatic options.

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We have money and we have plenty of ammunition. We are in very good shape.