Washington takes charge: Inside the international ceasefire command center in Kiryat Gat
A new international command center in Kiryat Gat is already operating with troops from the US, UK, Jordan and the UAE; Washington sets the pace, while Vice President Vance signals determination—and full control
The Americans are making it clear: they are fully engaged and not letting go. Since the cease-fire took effect a week ago, senior White House officials have been in Israel, effectively managing the operation. Alongside President Donald Trump’s visit, his envoys—the “deal architects”—toured Gaza, met with released hostages, and even joined a meeting at IDF headquarters, an unusual move.
In recent months, Israel has effectively become a U.S. protectorate: decisions are made in Washington, directives come from there, and Jerusalem is compelled to follow suit. In Kiryat Gat, the new international command center for implementing the Trump Agreement is already operational. The site hosts troops not only from the U.S., UK and Canada, but also from Jordan and the United Arab Emirates—nations that prefer to stay out of the spotlight.
The center, leading the second stage of Trump’s plan, is located in a large industrial complex and flies the flags of Denmark, Germany and Jordan—but notably not those of Turkey or Qatar, amid concerns over their potential postwar roles in Gaza. Separate floors are designated for Israeli and American personnel, with one shared level.
Washington leads, Israel follows
When President Trump unveiled his 20-point plan, it was clear that many issues would remain vague. Israel has been shaping its actions on the go, which is why the Americans insist on maintaining a presence—to keep things from unraveling.
At the start of his statement Tuesday, Vance said Western media often frame every crisis as a failure, “sometimes even waiting for it.” His remark was aimed at preparing public opinion for what lies ahead: there will be setbacks, he said, and patience is required.
The vice president held his press conference at the Kiryat Gat command center, answering questions and emphasizing Washington’s main messages. He promised that no foreign troops would be forced on Israel against its will, an apparent reference to concerns about Turkish and Qatari involvement. Nations seeking to contribute to stability, he said, could do so through funding, humanitarian aid or participation in the still-forming international stabilization force.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bk9grfbrel