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International troops could be deployed in the Gaza Strip as early as next month to form a U.N.-authorized stabilization force, part of the second phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan, two U.S. officials told Reuters.

According to the sources, the International Stabilization Force (ISF) will not be tasked with fighting Hamas. A U.S. two-star general may lead the force, but no final decision has been made. U.S. authorities are currently determining the force’s size, composition, housing, training, and rules of engagement.

Numerous countries have expressed interest in contributing, including Indonesia, which has indicated it is ready to deploy up to 20,000 troops for health and construction-related missions.

On November 17, the U.N. Security Council authorized the creation of a “Board of Peace” to oversee the ISF deployment and the demilitarization of Gaza, including destroying and preventing the rebuilding of military and terrorist infrastructure. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the second phase of the plan will focus on the demilitarization and disarmament of Hamas, while welcoming the U.S. initiative to establish a multinational force to carry out the mission.

Israel currently controls 53% of Gaza, while nearly two million residents live in areas under Hamas control. The plan foresees a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces as the ISF establishes security and stability.