U.S. CENTCOM to Host Doha Conference for International Stabilization Force in Gaza

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) is set to host an international conference in Doha, Qatar, on December 16, 2025, to plan the establishment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) for Gaza. This initiative follows the United Nations Security Council's adoption of Resolution 2803 on November 17, 2025, which authorized the creation of the ISF and the formation of a Board of Peace to oversee Gaza's redevelopment.

The conference aims to bring together representatives from over 25 countries to discuss the ISF's command structure, operational details, and coordination with the Board of Peace. The ISF is intended to stabilize Gaza and support demilitarization efforts without directly engaging Hamas militarily. However, challenges remain, including the disarmament of Hamas and the coordination among various international and local stakeholders.

Resolution 2803 endorses the "Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict," which includes the establishment of a temporary International Stabilization Force in Gaza and the formation of a Board of Peace to oversee reconstruction efforts. The resolution passed with 13 votes in favor and two abstentions (China and Russia). The ISF is tasked with deploying under a unified command to secure Gaza, oversee demilitarization, protect civilians, and facilitate humanitarian aid. As the ISF establishes control, the Israel Defense Forces are expected to withdraw from Gaza based on agreed standards and timeframes linked to demilitarization.

CENTCOM's upcoming conference in Doha aims to address critical issues related to the ISF, including its command structure, operational details, and coordination with the Board of Peace. Representatives from over 25 countries are expected to attend, reflecting a coordinated international effort to support stability and security in the region.

Discussions are ongoing regarding the ISF's size, composition, housing, and rules of engagement. An American two-star general is being considered to lead the ISF, with Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers, a CENTCOM special operations commander, identified as a potential candidate. Indonesia has expressed readiness to contribute up to 20,000 personnel for humanitarian and reconstruction roles within the force.

The ISF aims to stabilize Gaza and support demilitarization efforts without directly engaging Hamas militarily. However, it remains uncertain how Hamas will be disarmed, as the group refuses to disarm without the establishment of a Palestinian state. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has cautiously welcomed the multinational force but expressed doubts about its ability to fully achieve demilitarization.

The establishment of the ISF and the Board of Peace represents a significant international effort to stabilize Gaza and support its redevelopment. The success of these initiatives could lead to improved security, economic development, and humanitarian conditions in the region. However, challenges remain, including the disarmament of Hamas and the coordination among various international and local stakeholders.

The upcoming conference in Doha represents a coordinated international effort to support stability and security in Gaza. Addressing the outlined challenges will be crucial to ensuring the success of the ISF and the Board of Peace.