UN Resolution on International Stabilization Force for Gaza Hangs in Balance Over Leadership, Mandate Disputes
A UN Security Council resolution aiming to establish an international stabilization force in Gaza is on track to be adopted within two weeks, but progress has been slowed by contentious issues surrounding the force's mandate. The Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, said that any country considering participating in the force must first assess its mission and authority, adding that conflicts with principles and policies could hinder participation.
The proposed stabilization force is expected to have a leadership role for the US, but concerns over military involvement have led some Muslim countries to question this arrangement. "I don't think any of the countries will participate unless the Americans are heavily involved in a leadership role because otherwise people will think there is no constraint on the Israelis, frankly," a western diplomat stated.
Another contentious issue revolves around the disarmament of Hamas, which has refused to disarm under certain circumstances. The US has not agreed with Israel that Hamas should disarm when faced with imminent death at Israeli hands.
Pressure from Arab states is mounting for progress in establishing the stabilization force and its relationship with the Palestinian civil police force. Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi emphasized the need for a deconfliction mechanism to address security concerns, adding that an international element must be linked to the Palestinian Authority to ensure Gaza remains under Palestinian control.
As violence continues in Gaza, fears over the fragile truce are growing. The latest escalation saw 115 people killed and 352 injured on Tuesday, with widespread destruction and humanitarian crises remaining unresolved. Diplomats have expressed concerns about a potential security vacuum, urging swift action to address these issues before time runs out.
In the midst of this turmoil, diplomatic efforts continue to navigate complex issues surrounding the stabilization force's mandate and leadership structure. While disagreements persist, progress has been made in identifying candidates for a new committee tasked with administering Gaza, paving the way for a more inclusive governance model.
A UN Security Council resolution aiming to establish an international stabilization force in Gaza is on track to be adopted within two weeks, but progress has been slowed by contentious issues surrounding the force's mandate. The Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, said that any country considering participating in the force must first assess its mission and authority, adding that conflicts with principles and policies could hinder participation.
The proposed stabilization force is expected to have a leadership role for the US, but concerns over military involvement have led some Muslim countries to question this arrangement. "I don't think any of the countries will participate unless the Americans are heavily involved in a leadership role because otherwise people will think there is no constraint on the Israelis, frankly," a western diplomat stated.
Another contentious issue revolves around the disarmament of Hamas, which has refused to disarm under certain circumstances. The US has not agreed with Israel that Hamas should disarm when faced with imminent death at Israeli hands.
Pressure from Arab states is mounting for progress in establishing the stabilization force and its relationship with the Palestinian civil police force. Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi emphasized the need for a deconfliction mechanism to address security concerns, adding that an international element must be linked to the Palestinian Authority to ensure Gaza remains under Palestinian control.
As violence continues in Gaza, fears over the fragile truce are growing. The latest escalation saw 115 people killed and 352 injured on Tuesday, with widespread destruction and humanitarian crises remaining unresolved. Diplomats have expressed concerns about a potential security vacuum, urging swift action to address these issues before time runs out.
In the midst of this turmoil, diplomatic efforts continue to navigate complex issues surrounding the stabilization force's mandate and leadership structure. While disagreements persist, progress has been made in identifying candidates for a new committee tasked with administering Gaza, paving the way for a more inclusive governance model.