‘BD yet to decide on joining Gaza Stabilisation Force’
Diplomatic Correspondent :
Bangladesh has not yet made any decision on sending forces to Gaza under the proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF), Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said Wednesday, emphasising that discussions are still at an early stage.
Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hossain clarified that it is not yet determined who would participate in the mission.
“The key point is that three conditions have been clearly outlined. Under no circumstances will we join unless the required environment is established. We will not go to fight. If the conditions do not allow proper communication or engagement, we will not participate.
These conditions are clear, and only then will we consider it,” he said.
When asked whether it is appropriate for the interim government to make such a decision at the end of its tenure, Hossain noted that although the government’s term is ending, the administration remains in office, and national interests will not change overnight.
He added, “We will not do anything that the next government would immediately reverse. We hope the transition will take place smoothly.”
The proposed ISF for Gaza has been put forward by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Bangladesh’s interim government has expressed interest in participating, with National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman conveying this position during meetings in Washington with U.S.
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Alison Hooker and Assistant Secretary of State Paul Kapur.
The government stressed that any decision on participation would depend on meeting the preconditions and ensuring a suitable environment for engagement.
The interim government acknowledged that several Muslim countries have shown interest in participating in the force.
Earlier, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said Monday that Bangladesh, as one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions and a long-standing supporter of the Palestinian cause, is carefully considering participation, contingent on the fulfillment of key principles.