• Uganda's parliament approved troop deployment to Gaza for international peacekeeping.
• The decision reflects Uganda's willingness to participate in a proposed multinational force.
• Concerns have been raised by opposition lawmakers regarding the motives and funding of the deployment.
• The force intends to support stability following the Israel-Hamas war.
• U.S. President Trump's plan includes major troop withdrawals and disarmament efforts.

Uganda's parliament has voted to approve the deployment of troops to Gaza as part of a multinational security force proposed under U.S. President Donald Trump's ceasefire plan, marking Uganda's first public indication of willingness to contribute to the International Stabilization Force (ISF) for the region. Morocco has also pledged troops for this mission, highlighting a growing international effort to stabilize Gaza following the Israel-Hamas conflict. Defense Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka emphasized Uganda’s military capabilities as a reason for participation, noting its experience from previous peacekeeping efforts in Somalia and other regions, according to LA Times and Africanews.

During the parliamentary debate, some opposition lawmakers expressed skepticism about Uganda's motives, questioning whether the deployment involved any political quid pro quo or would raise diplomatic tensions, particularly given Uganda's membership in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Questions were also raised about the funding for the deployment, with MP Enos Asiimwe seeking clarity on who would bear the costs of the mission. This highlights the complexities faced by Uganda in committing troops to a contentious area, as reported by Africanews and Reuters.

The proposal for the ISF stems from a broader peace plan set forth by Trump which includes provisions for Hamas to disarm and for Israeli forces to withdraw from Gaza. Major General Jasper Jeffers, who would lead the force, stated that the initiative aims to ensure "future prosperity and enduring peace" in the region. The ISF is expected to be deployed after Israeli troop withdrawals are completed, according to Reuters, LA Times, and Africanews.