Albania is preparing for potential engagement in the Gaza Strip as part of an International Stabilization Force linked to a broader peace initiative aimed at ending the war between Israel and Hamas, Albanian defense officials said Friday.

Speaking at a press conference in Tirana, Albanian Defense Minister Ermal Nufi confirmed that an Albanian assessment team has already visited Gaza to evaluate conditions on the ground and determine possible areas for deployment.

“As part of our commitment to peace and international security efforts, Albania has taken measures to assess the situation in Gaza,” Nufi said. “The Gaza Strip remains under the security control of the Israel Defense Forces, and any troop inspections or deployments are coordinated through the International Stabilization Force and the Israeli military.”

The proposed mission stems from a 20-point peace initiative introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at bringing an end to the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Nufi said Albania’s General Staff has already prepared a phased operational plan regarding the country’s possible participation in the mission, though he declined to disclose further details.

Chief of the General Staff Arben Kingji stated that Albania is currently finalizing the legal and operational framework required for troop deployment.

“The General Staff is conducting a full assessment regarding the mission, personnel security, rules of engagement, and logistical support,” Kingji said. “The first Albanian contingent expected to deploy to Gaza would likely serve within the headquarters structure of the International Stabilization Force, followed by the possibility of broader troop participation.”

Earlier this month, Kosovo authorities confirmed that a team of Kosovar soldiers had also been sent to Gaza to assess potential operational zones for a future peacekeeping mission.

Nufi reiterated Albania’s commitment to NATO and international security cooperation, describing the country as “a steadfast ally and active partner in regional and global security.”

Defense officials also revealed that military cooperation between Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia is entering a more advanced phase, with three joint military exercises planned for this year involving additional NATO and partner countries.

Meanwhile, Albania has officially begun preparations for hosting next year’s NATO summit in Tirana.

“We have established a dedicated task force for the NATO summit,” Nufi said. “The exact venue has not yet been determined, but NATO applies extraordinary security measures for events of this scale.”