New U.N. Resolution Aims to Support Gaza Peace Efforts
Brief: U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Mike Waltz, introduced a new resolution to the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday, aimed at pushing forward a peace plan for Gaza proposed by former President Donald Trump.
Waltz recently met with leaders from countries like Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates to coordinate humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts linked to the plan. The resolution proposes an international security force in Gaza, which would be managed under U.N. guidance—a move that represents the second phase of the broader peace strategy.
Reports indicate that the draft could give this force the authority to take all necessary measures to secure the area, protect civilians, and begin to disarm armed groups once major fighting concludes. Additionally, it suggests establishing a “Board of Peace” to work alongside Egypt, Israel, and a vetted Palestinian police force.
International Support and Challenges
The U.S. has decided not to send combat troops but is working to encourage participation from predominantly Muslim nations like Indonesia and Turkey. Israeli officials have already indicated they will not allow Turkish troops near their borders.
This initiative also marked a rare meeting that included the Palestinian Authority, which is significant given the U.S. plan aims to eventually restore authority to them after reforms— a point opposed by Israel.
Learning from Past Conflicts
John Spencer, the executive director of the Urban Warfare Institute, expressed that the success of such a plan relies on following wins from past international efforts. He specifically highlighted Kosovo as a positive example, noting that it required a clear mandate and enough troops to enforce peace.
In contrast, he warned against using Lebanon as a model, citing failures of the U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to effectively demilitarize the region, which allowed groups like Hezbollah to strengthen. Spencer emphasized the need for a mission to be perceived as liberating regions from militant control, rather than occupying them.
Local Capacity-Building Essential
Spencer predicts that while the Israeli Defense Forces will continue operations against threats, the international force’s role will focus on humanitarian support, demining, and restoring order in secure areas. He believes that creating a vision for life after militant rule is crucial, as is training local police forces to ensure sustainable governance.
Around 200 U.S. personnel are currently stationed in a civil-military coordination center in Israel, crucial for planning and managing aid and reconstruction efforts. However, Spencer cautioned that the mission must anticipate disinformation and opposition, especially from groups that might undermine peace efforts.
In summary, while the proposed international mission in Gaza represents a new attempt at stabilizing the region, its success will hinge on providing clear authority, building local governance, and ensuring that peace efforts have strong international support.
