The UN Security Council is poised to vote on a critical resolution Monday that would authorize the deployment of an international force in Gaza. The US-backed proposal aims to stabilize the region following a fragile ceasefire that has held since October 10, 2025, between Israel and Hamas. The vote, set for 5:00 pm (2200 GMT), is a pivotal moment for global diplomacy as the world watches the outcome of the United States’ strategic push.
Key Components of the US Draft
The revised draft resolution, which has undergone several rounds of negotiation, endorses former President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. The plan includes the creation of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) that would collaborate with Israel and Egypt to help secure Gaza’s borders and demilitarize the region. The force would also assist in the permanent decommissioning of weapons held by non-state armed groups, while protecting civilians and securing essential humanitarian aid corridors.
Furthermore, the plan proposes the establishment of a “Board of Peace,” a transitional governing body for Gaza, which could be chaired by Trump until the end of 2027. While the US-backed resolution does not guarantee a future Palestinian state, it suggests that once the Palestinian Authority implements reforms and Gaza begins rebuilding, conditions for Palestinian self-determination may be achievable.
The Russian Challenge and Palestinian Opposition
Russia, which holds veto power in the Security Council, has introduced a competing draft. The Russian proposal emphasizes its support for a two-state solution and calls for the United Nations Secretary-General to provide options for both the creation of a Board of Peace and the deployment of international forces at a later stage. Moscow’s objection to the US draft highlights the divide between the international powers regarding the future of Palestine and Gaza.
Israel has firmly rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterating that his government will not support any plan that involves Palestinian statehood on Israeli-controlled territory.
US Push for Support
The United States has intensified its lobbying efforts, citing the resolution as a crucial step towards preventing renewed conflict. US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, argued that rejecting the resolution would pave the way for further instability and potentially reignite the violence between Israel and Hamas. The US has garnered support for the draft from several Arab and Muslim-majority nations, including Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.
Despite Russia’s objections, diplomats predict the US resolution will pass, with many Council members expected to back it despite concerns over certain elements of the plan. Some analysts suggest that Russia and China may abstain from voting, signaling skepticism while allowing the US to proceed with its peacekeeping strategy.
The Future of Gaza and Palestinian Statehood
The debate within the Security Council highlights the complex and contentious issues surrounding Gaza’s future. While the US resolution emphasizes security and stabilization, it remains silent on the possibility of Palestinian statehood, a subject of great contention. Israel’s stance on this matter remains clear: the country opposes the creation of a Palestinian state on any part of its territory.
As the vote approaches, global attention remains focused on how the Security Council will navigate these diverging interests, and whether the proposed plan can truly bring long-term peace to Gaza and the broader region.
