The United States is sending around 200 troops to Israel to help support and monitor the newly agreed ceasefire deal in Gaza, U.S. officials confirmed on Thursday.
The deployment will form part of a wider international effort that includes partner nations, non-governmental organisations, and private sector representatives. Together, they will coordinate humanitarian aid and oversee the implementation of the ceasefire following nearly two years of conflict between Israel and Hamas.
According to U.S. defence officials, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) will establish a civil-military coordination centre in Israel. The centre will be responsible for managing the flow of humanitarian assistance, as well as providing logistical and security support linked to the ceasefire agreement.
Officials stressed that no American troops will enter Gaza, with all operations taking place from within Israeli territory. The deployment will include personnel with expertise in transportation, planning, logistics, security, and engineering.
A second official said that some troops have already begun arriving in Israel, while others will travel over the weekend to help set up the coordination centre. Forces will be drawn from CENTCOM and other commands across the U.S. military.
The move follows a ceasefire agreement reached on Wednesday, after extensive mediation by the United States and regional partners. The first phase of the deal includes the release of all remaining Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, alongside a temporary halt to fighting.
The U.S. presence is intended to help monitor the implementation of the truce and support the transition towards a civilian-led administration in Gaza.
While the agreement marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough, major challenges remain, including the disarmament of Hamas, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the formation of a stable governing authority in Gaza.
Washington’s latest deployment underscores its ongoing commitment to supporting regional stability and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches civilians affected by the conflict.
