U.S. Proposal for Gaza Stabilization Force Faces Opposition at UN

The United States has proposed a United Nations resolution to authorize an international stabilization force in Gaza, aiming to provide security through the end of 2027. This initiative includes the establishment of a "Board of Peace" to temporarily govern the territory. However, the proposal has met significant opposition from Russia, China, and some Arab countries, who have expressed concerns over the board's formation and the absence of a transitional role for the Palestinian Authority.

Russia and China, both holding veto power in the UN Security Council, have called for the removal of the "Board of Peace" from the resolution. In response, the U.S. has revised the draft to emphasize Palestinian self-determination, though the language remains non-committal. The updated draft suggests that after reforms to the Palestinian Authority and progress in Gaza's redevelopment, conditions "may be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood."

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the urgency of passing the resolution, stating, "I think we're making good progress on the language of the resolution, and hopefully we'll have action on it very soon. We don't want to lose momentum on this."

The United Arab Emirates, a key U.S. ally, has expressed reservations about the proposed stabilization force, citing a lack of a clear framework and indicating it will not participate under current circumstances. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes Palestinian statehood and governance of Gaza by the Palestinian Authority, adding complexity to the negotiations.

Some Security Council members advocate for swift adoption of the proposal to maintain positive momentum toward peace. However, the U.S. faces challenges in securing consensus, with options including accepting amendments, putting the draft to a vote requiring nine affirmative votes without a veto from permanent members, or forming a coalition outside the UN framework to stabilize Gaza.

The current draft mandates the stabilization force to oversee the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the decommissioning of weapons from non-state armed groups. It also emphasizes the resumption of aid to Gaza by international organizations, ensuring that supplies are not diverted.

The outcome of the U.S. proposal remains uncertain as negotiations continue within the UN Security Council.