The deployment of members of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) to an international mission in Gaza will not depend directly on Kosovo’s institutions, but on decisions made by the United States, specifically by the American general who is expected to lead the Stabilization Force operation.
The American general is expected to determine the timing of deployment, the mode of engagement, and the duration of the mission, in line with operational planning on the ground.
This was stated for Klan Kosova by former KSF commander Kadri Kastrati.
According to him, logistical support for this mission is expected to be provided by the United States, as Kosovo’s capacities for transport and organization remain limited for such an international operation.
“In general, I believe the KSF is prepared to NATO standards, our strategic partner is the United States. Especially, the U.S. will have command in Gaza, and of course they will oversee this operation. Even though these are international forces there, they may also face extreme situations. Overall, our forces are prepared,” Kastrati said.
He added that participation in the mission will also have a positive political and diplomatic impact, as Kosovo moves from being a security consumer to an active contributor.
“And of course, this will make Kosovo proud. We gain a lot in the military aspect because we gain great experience, but also politically and diplomatically, because we have been consumers of security and now we are returning the investment of our partners—we are ready to contribute,” he said.
According to Kastrati, the KSF is prepared according to NATO standards and is expected to contribute mainly in demining and staff officer roles.
“Demining units and some staff officers will go there. The KSF is a leader in demining—there are many unexploded bombs and rockets there, and since the KSF is leading in this field, it may receive an invitation from the American general there. There is also the possibility of sending staff officers trained in NATO countries, as well as military police units,” he said.
He stressed that the timing of deployment does not depend on Kosovo.
“It does not depend on Kosovo when they will deploy. It depends on the American general there. He will call the forces when needed. This depends on the United States, because we will rely on their logistical support. We cannot transport all personnel and equipment required for such an operation,” he added.
Security expert Hysen Gecaj also said that the main challenges for KSF members will be related to the unstable security environment.
“The KSF has achieved good professional standards and interoperability with allies, but such missions remain challenging and require continuous preparation, high discipline, and operational experience in complex environments,” he said.
He called the decision an important strategic step for Kosovo.
“It is an important strategic decision that affirms Kosovo’s role as a contributor to international security. At the same time, it requires increased caution due to the sensitivity and high risk of the situation on the ground,” he concluded.
The Kosovo Assembly approved the government’s decision on April 17 to deploy the KSF abroad as part of the International Stabilization Force in Gaza. The decision passed with 89 votes in favor and none against or abstaining, paving the way for the international mission.
