The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on two competing resolutions concerning the future of Gaza, with a central point of contention being the prospect of Palestinian statehood.
A U.S.-drafted proposal calls for the establishment of an international stabilization force with a two-year mandate. This force would be tasked with securing border areas, protecting civilians, ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid, and overseeing the disarmament of non-state armed groups. The plan, which originated from a broader 20-point framework, also envisions Gaza’s reconstruction under a technocratic Palestinian administration.
In a significant development, the U.S. text now includes a reference to a “credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood,” a clause reportedly added following pressure from Arab nations. This marks a notable shift, as the U.S. has historically used its veto power on similar matters.
A rival resolution has been submitted by Russia and China, which is believed to align more closely with the positions of Arab states on a two-state solution. The situation creates a potential for a diplomatic deadlock, as either proposal could be vetoed by one of the council’s permanent members.
The proposal has triggered a political crisis within the Israeli government. Far-right ministers have publicly threatened to leave the governing coalition if the prime minister does not denounce the statehood clause. In response, the prime minister affirmed his long-standing opposition to a Palestinian state but suggested the clause was a necessary concession to secure international participation in the stabilization force.
The plan anticipates that troops for the new force would be drawn from Arab or Muslim nations. However, several potential contributors have expressed reservations or have been ruled out. The United Arab Emirates and Jordan have stated they will not provide troops, while Israel has reportedly vetoed Turkey’s participation.
A critical element of the plan involves the relationship between the international force and a future, vetted Palestinian police force. The international troops would be responsible for the politically sensitive task of overseeing the disarmament of militant groups, a key condition for an Israeli military withdrawal from the territory. There are concerns, however, about the feasibility of achieving complete disarmament.
