Washington: The US State Department announced on Thursday that it has formally notified Congress of its intention to fund the International Stabilization Force (ISF) planned for Gaza. This development marks an initial step in supporting President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan, as reported by Anadolu Ajansi (AA).
According to Nam News Network, the Department of State informed Congress about the funding support on July 30, confirmed by a spokesperson who described it as a preliminary measure to bolster the Board of Peace's efforts. However, the spokesperson did not disclose the specific amount of funding involved.
In a separate statement, US State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott emphasized Washington's commitment to implementing the President's comprehensive 21-point peace plan, highlighting the ISF as a critical element. Pigott noted the formation of a substantial global coalition through the Board of Peace and the release of hostages as significant achievements. "We are encouraged by the steady progress being made by the Board of Peace," Pigott stated.
President Trump announced on July 31 that the Board of Peace had secured an agreement with Hamas for the "complete disarmament" of the group and other armed factions in Gaza. The plan envisions Israeli forces withdrawing in phases, with the ISF working alongside a new Palestinian police force. However, the plan has met resistance from Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejecting it, asserting that Israeli forces would not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed.
Hamas has reiterated its commitment to the roadmap, while Senior White House advisor Jared Kushner recently visited the region. Kushner met with Hamas officials in Egypt and held discussions with Netanyahu in Israel, accompanied by Board of Peace envoy Nikolay Mladenov. Media reports suggest disagreements between Kushner and Netanyahu over Israel's continued military actions in Gaza, with Kushner opposing the ongoing strikes.
Efforts to implement a ceasefire agreement, effective from October 10, 2025, continue, despite challenges. Israeli violations of the agreement have resulted in the deaths of 1,283 Palestinians and injuries to 4,248 others, according to the latest figures from the Health Ministry in Gaza. Since October 8, 2023, Israel has waged a devastating war on Gaza, causing over 73,000 Palestinian casualties, wounding more than 174,000, and destroying approximately 90 percent of the territory's infrastructure.