United Nations Security Council Backs the US Gaza Strip Peace Plan

A global body has approved measures advanced by Donald Trump for achieving a long-term stability in the Gaza Strip, encompassing the introduction of an international stabilisation force and a eventual avenue to a sovereign Palestinian state.

Unanimous Approval with Notable Abstentions

This measure was approved by a count of thirteen in favor, with both China and Russia choosing not to vote. Washington's diplomat the US ambassador informed the UN assembly that it set “a different path in the region for both sides and all the people of the territory alike”.

Balanced Wording on Palestinian Statehood

The inclusion of references to an independent Palestine was the concession the United States paid for support from the Arab states, who are expected to contribute peacekeepers for the global force.

“Provisional steps that we start today must be executed in adhering to legal norms and upholding Palestinian sovereignty,” James Kariuki affirmed.

Netanyahu's Opposition Persists

Nonetheless, on the eve of the council decision, leader the Israeli leader reiterated his government’s strong objection to the creation of a sovereign Palestine, raising questions on whether Tel Aviv will allow the implementation of the Council-backed plan.

Main Elements of the Proposal

• Swift elimination of existing limitations on humanitarian aid into the strip
• Formation of an global security force
• Progress on restoration and a possible “pathway to Palestinian self-determination and sovereignty”

Ambiguous Phrasing and Requirements

The inclusion to Palestinian statehood was a negotiated inclusion to an original American proposal which excluded it. But the wording is vague and dependent, promising only that once the Palestinian Authority has reformed itself and the reconstruction of the strip is under way, “the circumstances may eventually be in place for a feasible course to Palestinian independence and nationhood.”

Worldwide Feedback

The language was insufficient of the strong guarantee to the building of a independent Palestinian entity alongside Israel sought by Muslim nations, as well as European council members, but in speeches to the council after the decision, representatives from those countries said they were prepared to accept the compromise in the benefit of prolonging the ongoing cessation of hostilities and prompt actions to feed and protect the millions of Palestinian residents in the strip.

“Our delegation has ultimately decided to endorse of this document, a resolution that we back its primary aim, namely the continuation of the ceasefire and the establishment of situations permitting the Palestinian population to claim their immeasurable rights to independence and nationhood,” Amar Bendjama announced.

Implementation Challenges

The proposal gives overall oversight authority to a “board of peace” chaired by Donald Trump, but of uncertain membership. The group has to update the UN but it is not required to follow the desires of the United Nations or by the Palestinian leadership.

Additionally, it requires the creation of a Palestinian technocratic committee that is supposed to run day-to-day governance of the Gaza and the delivery of services, but it is highly uncertain who would be involved.

Stabilisation Team Mandate

The mission of the ISF empowers it to disarm and dismantle fighting factions in the strip, but it is highly uncertain that possible sending countries would be willing to face such organizations. Not a single nation has yet agreed to contributing forces.

Moreover the criteria for modification of Palestinian leadership, the requirement towards steps to Palestinian statehood, have been hazy.

European diplomats said they deemed it necessary that the members of the expert panel to deliver services was agreed as without delay.