United Nations Security Council Backs Donald Trump's Gaza Strip Proposal

The global body has approved a plan presented by the US president for securing a long-term stability in the Gaza Strip, encompassing the introduction of an multinational security unit and a potential avenue to a sovereign Palestinian state.

Broad Support with Notable Absent Votes

The resolution was approved by a tally of thirteen supporting, with China and Russia choosing not to vote. The US envoy the US ambassador informed the international body that it charted “a different path in the area for Israelis and Palestinians and all the residents of the territory alike”.

Negotiated Phrasing on Sovereignty

Addition of mentions to an independent Palestine was the concession the America agreed to for backing from the Arab states, who are expected to contribute peacekeepers for the international stabilisation force (ISF).

“Interim measures that we embark on today must be executed in following global standards and honoring Palestinian self-determination,” Britain's representative declared.

Israeli Resistance Remains

Nevertheless, on the eve of the resolution approval, PM Netanyahu reiterated his cabinet's strong objection to the creation of a Palestinian state, casting doubt on whether Israel will accept the execution of the internationally endorsed measures.

Key Provisions of the Measure

• Immediate lifting of remaining curbs on humanitarian aid into the strip
• Creation of an multinational peacekeeping unit
• Steps toward rebuilding and a possible “avenue to Palestinian independence and sovereignty”

Ambiguous Phrasing and Requirements

The mention to sovereignty was a compromise addition to an first US version which excluded it. However the phrasing is vague and dependent, declaring only that once the Palestinian leadership has reformed itself and the rebuilding of the territory is advancing, “the circumstances may finally be in readiness for a realistic route to Palestinian sovereignty and statehood.”

Global Response

The phrasing did not meet of the definite pledge to the creation of a sovereign Palestine beside Israel desired by Arab and Islamic states, as well as European council members, but in statements to the council after the approval, representatives from those countries said they were willing to endorse the compromise in the interests of extending the current truce and prompt actions to provide for and safeguard the over two million Palestinians in the territory.

“Our delegation has finally decided to endorse of this document, a resolution that we back its main goal, namely the preservation of the cessation of hostilities and the formation of conditions enabling the Palestinians to claim their basic entitlements to self-determination and statehood,” the Algerian envoy stated.

Implementation Challenges

This measure grants overall oversight authority to a “board of peace” headed by Trump, but of undefined composition. The group has to update the United Nations but it is not obligated by the wishes of the UN or by the Palestinian leadership.

Additionally, it requires the creation of a specialized Palestinian group that is tasked with overseeing daily administration of the Gaza Strip and the delivery of services, but it is quite ambiguous who would be involved.

Peacekeeping Unit Mission

The mandate of the global force empowers it to disarm and dismantle armed groups in the territory, but it is quite ambiguous that potential participating nations would agree to attempt to confront such organizations. No country has yet agreed to contributing forces.

Moreover the standards for reform of the Palestinian Authority, the prerequisite towards progress on independence, have been vague.

European officials said they considered it urgent that the identities of the specialized group to provide utilities was settled as without delay.