Paris Conference Convenes to Chart Gaza's Post-War Future, Peacekeeping, and Reconstruction

International Leaders Address Gaza's Future in Paris

On Thursday, October 9, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron convened a high-level conference in Paris, bringing together foreign ministers from various Western and Arab nations. The primary objective of the meeting was to discuss the critical next steps for Gaza's post-conflict future, specifically focusing on the establishment of an international peacekeeping force and comprehensive reconstruction efforts. President Macron emphasized that the conference aimed to 'complement' existing U.S. initiatives for peace in the region.

Key Discussions on Stabilization and Governance

The conference's agenda was multifaceted, addressing several crucial aspects for a stable and sustainable peace in Gaza. Discussions included:

• The formation of an international stabilization force, with talks exploring a potential United Nations mandate for such a mission.
• Strategies for post-war governance in Gaza.
• Coordination of humanitarian aid and extensive reconstruction programs for the devastated territory.
• The demilitarization of Gaza and strengthening the Palestinian Authority.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that countries had identified contributions they were willing to undertake in post-conflict Gaza, covering 'security, governance, reconstruction and humanitarian aid'. President Macron also affirmed France's readiness 'to play a role in the Gaza stabilisation force' once hostilities cease. Similarly, Italy expressed its willingness to contribute to reconstruction and send troops if an international peacekeeping force is established.

Context of Ceasefire and U.S. Peace Plan

The Paris conference took place just hours after Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas signed an agreement for a ceasefire and a prisoner-hostage swap. This agreement was described as the 'first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump's initiative to end the war in Gaza'. Attendees at the Paris meeting included Qatar's Prime Minister HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, who played a mediating role in the ceasefire, as well as the foreign ministers of Egypt and Turkey. Other participants included the EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. However, the conference drew criticism from Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who called it 'unnecessary and harmful' and suggested it was 'concocted behind Israel's back'.

Path Forward for Gaza

The discussions in Paris underscore a concerted international effort to define the future of Gaza following the recent conflict. With a focus on establishing security through an international force and rebuilding the infrastructure, the conference aimed to lay the groundwork for a lasting peace, aligning with broader U.S. diplomatic endeavors.