Uganda approves deployment of army to Gaza as part of international peacekeeping force

Uganda's Parliament has approved the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) to Gaza, joining a proposed international stabilization force. The motion, presented by Defense Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka, seeks parliamentary approval to deploy troops to aid in restoring peace and delivering humanitarian assistance.

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The UPDF contingent will remain neutral, comply with International humanitarian law, protect civilians without taking sides in political disputes, and operate solely under the mandate of the Stabilization Mission.

Minister Kiwanuka emphasized that the mission would operate under strict humanitarian principles, ensuring the UPDF contingent remains neutral, adheres to international humanitarian law, and protects civilians without engaging in political disputes. The deployment is framed as aligning with Uganda's constitutional obligations and international commitments.

However, the decision faced scrutiny from several legislators. Chief Opposition Whip Paul Mwiru and Joseph Ssewungu expressed concerns about the motion being presented without adequate time for preparation or risk assessment, calling it an "ambush." John Baptist Nambeshe highlighted the need for reports on ongoing deployments before approving a new mission.

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I am not supporting your motion, because it is an ambush on us.

Concerns were also raised about the specific challenges of operating in Gaza. Nambeshe noted the complexities of urban warfare, making it difficult to distinguish between combatants and civilians. Patrick Nsamba cautioned against casually approving deployment to a high-risk area subject to frequent Israeli strikes.

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It is urban warfare and it becomes very difficult to distinguish between combatants and civilians. The matter of deploying our soldiers to a very risky place like Gaza, where Israel strikes every now and again, cannot be just casually passed here. We have to prepare enough.

Despite these reservations, UPDF representative Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko dismissed claims of unpreparedness, urging Ugandans to take pride in the international recognition of the UPDF. Maj. Gen. David Gonyi added that Uganda has both a moral and diplomatic obligation to support the mission, viewing the UPDF as an "anchor of stability."

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You should be very, very proud as Ugandans that Uganda People’s Defense Forces is viewed as the anchor of stability in a sea of turbulence regionally and now globally.