Uganda Parliament Approves UPDF Deployment to Gaza Stabilization Mission

Parliament has officially sanctioned the deployment of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers to the Gaza Strip. The contingent will join an International Stabilization Force (ISF) at the invitation of the United States, aiming to support peace and security in the region.

Presided over by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, the parliamentary session granted President Yoweri Museveni the authority to contribute Ugandan forces. The mission’s objectives include monitoring ceasefire agreements, combating terrorist elements, and safeguarding civilian populations in the war-torn Gaza.

Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, presented the motion, citing Uganda’s constitutional mandate and its extensive history in international peacekeeping operations, including missions in Somalia, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and various UN peacekeeping efforts.

The deployment is reportedly in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025) and follows diplomatic engagement between President Museveni and U.S. President Donald Trump. The mission aims to bolster a transitional administration, known as the Board of Peace (BoP), and collaborate with international partners like Morocco in areas outside of Israeli military control.

Minister Kiwanuka assured Parliament that the UPDF would operate under strict adherence to international law, maintaining neutrality, protecting civilians, and following defined rules of engagement. He emphasized that Uganda’s participation would help prevent further conflict and contribute to eliminating terrorist threats.

While UPDF Representative Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko welcomed the deployment as an honorable humanitarian task, some opposition lawmakers voiced reservations. Concerns were raised about parliamentary procedure, the need for greater transparency, and the welfare of the deployed troops. MP Joseph Ssewungu described the motion as an “ambush” and requested more time for review, while MP John Baptist Nambeshe called for an evaluation of past deployments before committing to new ones. Issues regarding troop welfare and financial facilitation were also highlighted, with MPs warning against any mismanagement of soldier emoluments.

Despite the debate, the motion was adopted, granting the necessary parliamentary authorization for the UPDF contingent to prepare for deployment.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)