Israel approves international force for Gaza as West Bank mosque attacks spark raids

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has approved the entry of an international stabilization force into parts of the Gaza Strip, according to reports from July 26 and 27, 2026. This move is part of a plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, aimed at stabilizing the region following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in October 2025.
The international force, known as the International Stabilization Force (ISF), will include around 200 soldiers from countries considered friendly to Israel, such as Uganda and Morocco. The force will operate in coordination with the Israeli military and will be deployed in areas not under Israeli control. The decision was made by Israel's security cabinet on July 26, 2026, and the force's deployment is expected to begin soon, although no specific timeline has been given.
The approval of the ISF comes as part of a broader plan that includes humanitarian aid, the establishment of a new civil administration in Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the strip. However, the implementation of this plan has faced challenges, with Hamas rejecting the disarmament demand and Israel increasing its control over parts of Gaza.
Meanwhile, violence has escalated in the occupied West Bank. On July 26 and 27, 2026, Israeli settlers set fire to two mosques in separate attacks, causing significant damage. These incidents are part of a pattern of increasing violence in the region, with reports of daily clashes between Palestinians and Israeli settlers.
On July 27, 2026, Israeli forces conducted a wide-scale military operation in Palestinian villages in the West Bank following a shooting attack that killed two soldiers. The operation included raids on the city of Nablus and nearby villages, resulting in the detention of over 70 Palestinians and injuries to several others in settler attacks.
The US State Department condemned the violence by all parties in the West Bank, emphasizing the need for stability in the region for both Israeli security and American diplomatic objectives. The statement came as Israeli military operations escalate in the Palestinian territory.
In addition to the military operations, there are reports that Israeli officials are considering the displacement of entire towns in the West Bank. This proposal has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation and the impact on the local population.
The situation in the West Bank and Gaza remains tense, with ongoing violence and political developments shaping the landscape. The approval of the international stabilization force is seen as a step towards implementing the broader peace plan, but challenges remain as both sides navigate the complexities of the conflict.
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