Uganda is considering deploying troops to the Gaza Strip under an international peacekeeping arrangement, following a request by the United States and ongoing global efforts to stabilise the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
According to defence minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka, the proposal stems from engagements between Uganda and international partners, including the United States, regarding participation in the International Stabilisation Force (ISF).
“On various dates in July 2026, Uganda held planning meetings between the UPDF senior leadership and officials of the United States Embassy in Kampala, as well as the leadership of the International Stabilisation Force on the possible deployment,” Kiwanuka said.
He added that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is ready to deploy a UPDF contingent, subject to the necessary legal and parliamentary approvals.
Under Uganda’s Constitution and the UPDF Act, the president can deploy troops outside the country for peacekeeping or enforcement purposes, but such action requires Parliament’s approval.
The planned mission is linked to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025), which endorsed the establishment of a transitional administration the Board of Peace (BoP) to coordinate reconstruction and stabilisation efforts in Gaza.
The resolution also called on member states to contribute personnel, equipment and financial resources to support the International Stabilisation Force tasked with maintaining order and supporting recovery efforts in the territory.
The Gaza crisis intensified following the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas and allied groups on southern Israel, which left about 1,200 people dead and hundreds taken hostage. Israel’s subsequent military response has caused widespread destruction, displacement and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Officials say Uganda’s potential deployment would focus on supporting ceasefire implementation, protecting civilians, and facilitating humanitarian access, while contributing to broader international security.
Kiwanuka noted that Uganda’s experience in peacekeeping operations including missions in Somalia, South Sudan, the Central African Republic and under United Nations frameworks positions the UPDF as a capable contributor to such efforts.
“Uganda’s participation would help prevent further conflict, support implementation of security arrangements, and contribute to stabilisation in the region,” he said.
The deployment, if approved, would also involve monitoring compliance with ceasefire agreements, assisting in demobilisation efforts and supporting a return to normalcy in affected areas.
However, the proposal is expected to attract debate within Parliament and the public, given the complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict and the risks associated with overseas military engagements.
