The U.S. is proposing a significant move in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas: a stabilization force in Gaza, potentially lasting until the end of **2027.** This initiative, part of a broader plan, is currently under consideration by the United Nations. But here's where it gets controversial... the details are still being hammered out.
According to a draft text circulated by the United States, this international force would be in place for at least two years if approved by a UN resolution. This draft, which is in the early stages of negotiation, is being discussed and modified based on input from the 15-member council and other international partners. The backing of the UN is seen as crucial for encouraging countries to contribute troops to this stabilization effort.
"What we believe is that whatever entity that is created in Gaza should have the legitimacy of a mandate from the Security Council," stated UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The draft, introduced as a starting point, aims to establish consensus and provide an international mandate for the force and participating nations. However, China and Russia, as permanent members of the council, are likely to present the biggest hurdles for the U.S. in pushing through the resolution without a veto.
The core goals of the proposed force include ensuring the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the permanent decommissioning of weapons from non-state armed groups. A major challenge in the plan is disarming Hamas, which has not fully embraced this step. The stabilization force would have a broad mandate to provide security in Gaza, working alongside a yet-to-be-established "Board of Peace" that would temporarily govern the territory. The draft also emphasizes close cooperation with Egypt and Israel.
Furthermore, the text outlines that the troops would help secure border areas, collaborate with a Palestinian police force, and coordinate the flow of humanitarian aid. It also stresses the "full resumption" of aid to Gaza by the United Nations, Red Cross, and Red Crescent, ensuring that these essential supplies are not diverted.
And this is the part most people miss... Britain's minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Hamish Falconer, highlighted the importance of upholding the fragile ceasefire and maintaining the flow of aid. He also emphasized that any stabilization force in Gaza should be "underpinned by a Security Council mandate."
In related developments, the remains of an Israeli hostage were returned, marking progress under the U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Prior to this, Hamas had already returned the remains of 20 hostages. The ceasefire aims to de-escalate the conflict, which has been the most destructive war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group. For each Israeli hostage returned, Israel has released the remains of 15 Palestinians, with a total of 270 Palestinian bodies handed over so far. Forensic work is complicated by a lack of DNA testing kits in Gaza.
The war, which was initiated by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in a devastating toll. Israel's military response has led to the deaths of more than 68,800 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Israel disputes the ministry's figures but has not provided contradicting data.
This is a complex situation with many layers. What do you think about the proposed stabilization force? Do you believe it's a viable solution, or do you foresee significant challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
