Kosovo has expressed readiness to send several dozen members of its security forces to an international mission in Gaza, as part of a U.S.-supported initiative following the ceasefire reached between Israel and Hamas last year.
Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci told AP that Kosovo is entering a new phase, transitioning from a security beneficiary to an active contributor to international security.
He stated that the Kosovo contingent would include several dozen soldiers, including demining experts, who would be engaged in humanitarian support and other tasks under the mission’s mandate.
“Until now we have been consumers of security, as NATO has contributed to our safety. Now we are becoming providers of security,” Maqedonci said, adding that preparations are in the final stages and that a U.S. representative assisted in the process, including troop vaccinations and technical procedures.
“A U.S. representative has helped with preparations, including troop vaccination, visa issuance, and other technical arrangements,” he added.
Kosovo’s participation in such a mission is seen as a sign of progress since its independence in 2008, which is still not recognized by Serbia.
Meanwhile, tensions between Pristina and Belgrade remain present despite EU-led efforts to normalize relations, which have recently stalled.
Kosovo currently has around 4,000 members in the Kosovo Security Force (KSF), which aims to transform into a fully professional army aligned with NATO standards.
The decision to contribute to the Gaza mission has been welcomed by some citizens, who see it as a way for Kosovo to give back to the international community that has supported it over the years.
