United Nations Council Endorses Donald Trump's Gaza Peace Plan

The global body has voted to endorse a plan advanced by the US president for achieving a long-term stability in the Gaza Strip, including the introduction of an international stabilisation force and a potential route to a Palestinian statehood.

Widespread Support with Notable Absent Votes

The proposal was approved by a count of thirteen supporting, with both China and Russia abstaining. America's representative Mike Waltz told the international body that it mapped “a different path in the Middle East for both sides and all the residents of the region alike”.

Balanced Language on Independence

Incorporation of allusions to an sovereign Palestinian state was the concession the US paid for endorsement from the Arab states, who are expected to contribute peacekeepers for the global force.

“Interim measures that we begin today must be carried out in adhering to global standards and upholding Palestinian rights,” James Kariuki stated.

Netanyahu's Objection Continues

Nonetheless, on the eve of the UN vote, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his government’s adamant opposition to the formation of a sovereign Palestine, creating uncertainty on whether the Israeli government will permit the enactment of the UN-mandated proposals.

Central Components of the Measure

• Prompt removal of remaining curbs on assistance into the strip
• Formation of an international stabilisation force
• Steps toward reconstruction and a possible “pathway to Palestinian independence and nationhood”

Unclear Wording and Stipulations

The mention to sovereignty was a negotiated inclusion to an first US version which did not mention it. Yet the language is unclear and contingent, stating only that once the PA has undergone changes and the reconstruction of the strip is under way, “the conditions may eventually be in readiness for a feasible course to Palestinian sovereignty and nationhood.”

International Response

The language did not meet of the firm commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state next to Israel requested by Arab countries, as well as European council members, but in statements to the chamber after the decision, delegates from those countries said they were prepared to accept the compromise in the interests of prolonging the ongoing cessation of hostilities and prompt actions to assist and secure the over two million Palestinian people in the territory.

“We has finally decided to vote in favour of this document, a resolution that we approve its core objective, namely the preservation of the cessation of hostilities and the establishment of conditions enabling the Palestinian people to exercise their fundamental rights to sovereignty and nationhood,” Amar Bendjama stated.

Execution Hurdles

The proposal gives overall oversight authority to a “stabilisation committee” chaired by Trump, but of unspecified participants. The group has to inform the United Nations but it is not obligated by the preferences of the United Nations or by the Palestinian leadership.

It also calls for the creation of a specialized Palestinian group that is tasked with overseeing daily administration of the Gaza and the provision of utilities, but it is far from clear who would take part.

Peacekeeping Unit Authority

The mission of the ISF authorizes it to disarm and dismantle fighting factions in the territory, but it is highly uncertain that possible sending countries would be willing to face such factions. Not a single nation has to date committed itself to contributing forces.

Moreover the requirements for modification of Palestinian leadership, the requirement towards steps to Palestinian statehood, have been hazy.

EU representatives said they considered it urgent that the identities of the Palestinian technocratic committee to provide utilities was determined as promptly.