United Nations Security Council Approves the US Gaza Peace Plan

The global body has approved proposals advanced by Donald Trump for achieving a long-term stability in the Gaza Strip, including the introduction of an global peacekeeping force and a potential path to a Palestinian statehood.

Broad Approval with Notable Absent Votes

The proposal was adopted by a vote of thirteen supporting, with both China and Russia declining to cast votes. America's representative Mike Waltz informed the UN assembly that it charted “a new course in the area for Israelis and Palestinians and all the inhabitants of the territory alike”.

Compromise Phrasing on Sovereignty

The inclusion of mentions to an sovereign Palestinian state was the trade-off the US offered for endorsement from the Arab states, who are likely to supply peacekeepers for the global force.

“Provisional steps that we begin today must be carried out in accordance with international law and respecting Palestinian rights,” the UK chargé d’affaires declared.

Government Resistance Remains

Nonetheless, on the eve of the council decision, PM Netanyahu reiterated his government’s firm resistance to the formation of a sovereign Palestine, raising questions on whether Tel Aviv will permit the execution of the UN-mandated proposals.

Main Elements of the Measure

• Immediate lifting of ongoing restrictions on relief supplies into the strip
• Formation of an multinational peacekeeping unit
• Steps toward restoration and a possible “avenue to Palestinian sovereignty and statehood”

Unclear Wording and Conditions

The inclusion to independence was a balanced insertion to an original American proposal which excluded it. Yet the wording is unclear and contingent, declaring only that once the Palestinian leadership has implemented reforms and the rebuilding of the territory is progressing, “the situation may eventually be in readiness for a feasible course to Palestinian self-determination and nationhood.”

Worldwide Feedback

The language fell far short of the firm commitment to the establishment of a sovereign Palestine next to Israel desired by Arab countries, as well as European council members, but in statements to the council after the approval, envoys from those states said they were willing to endorse the settlement in the interests of continuing the present ceasefire and prompt actions to feed and protect the 2.2 million Palestinians in Gaza.

“Our delegation has ultimately decided to endorse of this text, a text that we approve its primary aim, namely the continuation of the truce and the creation of situations permitting the Palestinian people to claim their basic entitlements to self-determination and statehood,” Amar Bendjama declared.

Practical Difficulties

This measure provides comprehensive monitoring control to a “board of peace” headed by Trump, but of uncertain membership. The board has to update the UN but it is not bound by the desires of the UN or by the Palestinian leadership.

It also calls for the formation of a expert Palestinian panel that is expected to manage day-to-day governance of the Gaza Strip and the delivery of services, but it is highly uncertain who would take part.

Security Force Mandate

The authority of the ISF empowers it to neutralize and disband armed groups in Gaza, but it is highly uncertain that possible sending countries would consent to engage such organizations. None of the states has so far committed itself to dispatching troops.

Furthermore the requirements for reform of the Palestinian Authority, the requirement towards steps to Palestinian statehood, have been vague.

EU representatives said they considered it urgent that the names of the Palestinian technocratic committee to deliver services was settled as without delay.