Negotiations for Greece's inclusion in the International Stabilization Force in the Gaza Strip are at an advanced stage, reports the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, citing well-informed sources. According to available information, the country intends to join with a battalion with a reduced composition of about 100 to 150 military personnel, BTA reports.
The initial agreements envisaged that the Greek mission would have an entirely supportive character - with medical and technical units. Subsequently, however, a decision was made to include a combat unit in the contingent.
In addition, Athens plans to send staff officers who will be permanently positioned in the command of the stabilization forces. Two Greek officers are currently on the ground working at the Civil-Military Coordination Center in Kiryat Gat, a structure under American leadership.
Official details about Greece's participation have not yet been made public, as the process is still in the planning stage. According to preliminary data, the Greek contingent will be deployed along the security perimeter around Gaza, built by the Israeli army. The servicemen will not carry out independent operations, but will operate within joint formations created to carry out specific tasks.