Why it matters:
The U.S. proposal is the most far-reaching attempt yet to secure a UN-mandated force to stabilize Gaza during a transitional period. But the backlash shows how deeply divided the Security Council has become over Gaza’s future. Major powers are clashing over the role of the Palestinian Authority, the extent of international involvement, and concerns that Washington’s plan could cement a prolonged foreign presence without guaranteeing a credible path to Palestinian statehood. Russia and China argue that the draft gives the U.S. and Israel disproportionate influence over Gaza’s security and political trajectory, while Arab states warn it risks undermining Palestinian legitimacy and regional consensus.
The big picture:
Diplomats say the U.S. began circulating its draft resolution last week. The proposal seeks UN authorization for a multinational stabilization force to work with a still-undefined “peace authority” until at least 2027.
Several major concerns quickly surfaced:
• Russia, China, and Algeria object to creating a transitional governing body in Gaza that excludes the Palestinian Authority.
•Arab governments insist that the mission must be linked to a clear path toward Palestinian statehood.
•Nearly all Council members have requested significant revisions, signaling widespread unease with the U.S. blueprint.
The latest U.S. draft, circulated Tuesday night, keeps the transitional body but adds language referencing Palestinian self-determination. Critics argue that the assurances remain weak.
What he is saying:
The U.S. mission to the UN said in a statement that attempts to create division would have “severe, tangible, and entirely preventable consequences for Palestinians in Gaza,” urging the Council to unite behind the resolution.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters after the G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting in Canada: “We’ve made good progress on the content. We don’t want to lose momentum. The Council should act without delay.”
Key points:
• Russia and China, both wielding veto power, demand scrapping the “peace authority” entirely, calling it an illegitimate U.S.-backed administrative mechanism.
• Arab states say the plan weakens the Palestinian Authority at a moment when institutional reform and national reconciliation are essential.
• A major sticking point is the political roadmap. The new draft mentions that conditions could eventually allow for a Palestinian state, but several members contend the language lacks commitments or timelines.
• The draft envisions an Israeli withdrawal only after the stabilization force “establishes control and security,” based on criteria negotiated by Israel, the U.S., and others. Opponents argue this gives Israel decisive influence over Gaza’s future.
• The UAE publicly stated this week that it has yet to see a clear structure for the proposed force and cannot commit troops under current conditions.
• Some Council members stress the need for swift action to preserve diplomatic momentum, while others warn that moving too quickly could result in an unbalanced framework being established.
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M.Majdi - ahmad shirzadian