UN Security Council Backs Donald Trump's Gaza Strip Initiative

A UN Security Council has supported measures put forward by the US president for establishing a durable ceasefire in Gaza, encompassing the introduction of an global peacekeeping force and a possible avenue to a independent Palestine.

Widespread Approval with Notable Absent Votes

The resolution was adopted by a tally of 13-0, with both China and Russia declining to cast votes. America's representative the American delegate addressed the council chamber that it set “a different path in the Middle East for both sides and all the people of the territory alike”.

Negotiated Wording on Sovereignty

Incorporation of allusions to an self-governing Palestine was the trade-off the US agreed to for support from the Muslim nations, who are anticipated to supply stabilisation troops for the international stabilisation force (ISF).

“Provisional steps that we begin today must be implemented in accordance with international law and honoring Palestinian sovereignty,” the UK chargé d’affaires declared.

Israeli Opposition Remains

However, on the verge of the UN vote, leader Netanyahu reaffirmed his government’s strong objection to the establishment of a independent Palestinian entity, raising questions on whether Tel Aviv will allow the execution of the internationally endorsed measures.

Main Elements of the Proposal

• Prompt removal of remaining curbs on humanitarian aid into Gaza
• Formation of an multinational peacekeeping unit
• Progress on reconstruction and a potential “route to Palestinian independence and sovereignty”

Vague Wording and Stipulations

The reference to sovereignty was a balanced insertion to an first US version which did not mention it. However the language is unclear and contingent, declaring only that once the Palestinian Authority has implemented reforms and the reconstruction of Gaza is advancing, “the conditions may eventually be in position for a realistic route to Palestinian independence and nationhood.”

International Response

The language did not meet of the definite pledge to the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel requested by Arab and Islamic states, as well as European delegates, but in statements to the assembly after the vote, envoys from those countries said they were willing to endorse the agreement in the interests of extending the present ceasefire and prompt actions to feed and protect the 2.2 million Palestinians in the territory.

“We has finally decided to vote in favour of this document, a text that we approve its main goal, namely the preservation of the cessation of hostilities and the creation of situations allowing the Palestinians to claim their basic entitlements to independence and sovereignty,” Algeria's representative stated.

Implementation Challenges

The proposal grants general supervisory power to a “peace board” headed by Trump, but of unspecified participants. This committee has to update the United Nations but it is not required to follow the preferences of the United Nations or by the PA.

Furthermore, it demands the establishment of a specialized Palestinian group that is expected to manage daily administration of the Gaza and the provision of utilities, but it is highly uncertain who would be involved.

Peacekeeping Unit Mission

The mandate of the ISF gives it authority to remove and dissolve militant organizations in the strip, but it is highly uncertain that potential participating nations would consent to face such organizations. No country has so far committed itself to contributing forces.

Additionally the requirements for changes to the PA, the requirement towards progress on independence, have been unclear.

European diplomats said they deemed it necessary that the identities of the Palestinian technocratic committee to deliver services was agreed as quickly as possible.