The United States has just dropped a bombshell proposal at the United Nations: a stabilization force in Gaza that could last until 2027. But here's where it gets controversial—this plan, part of Donald Trump's strategy to end the Israel-Hamas conflict, is already sparking intense debate. If approved, this international force would operate for at least two years, but the devil is in the details. And this is the part most people miss: the draft, confirmed by U.S. officials, is just the starting point for what could be a lengthy and contentious negotiation process among the 15-member UN Security Council and other global partners.
The proposal, shared on Tuesday, aims to establish a consensus that would grant the stabilization force and participating countries an international mandate. However, here’s the catch: Arab nations and other potential contributors insist that UN backing is non-negotiable for them to commit troops. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized in Doha that any entity created in Gaza must have the legitimacy of a Security Council mandate. But with permanent council members like China and Russia likely to oppose the U.S. push, the path to approval is far from smooth.
The draft outlines a broad mission for the force, including demilitarizing Gaza, decommissioning weapons from non-state armed groups, and securing border areas alongside a trained Palestinian police force. It also calls for the 'full resumption' of humanitarian aid by the UN, Red Cross, and Red Crescent, ensuring supplies reach those in need without diversion. Yet, the plan hinges on cooperation with Egypt and Israel, and it raises a critical question: How will Hamas, which hasn’t fully accepted disarmament, fit into this equation?
Here’s where opinions will clash: While the U.S. sees this as a step toward peace, critics argue it could entrench foreign military presence in Gaza, potentially fueling resentment. Hamish Falconer, the UK’s Middle East minister, highlighted the fragility of the current ceasefire and the urgency of scaling up aid, but he also noted that many questions remain about the plan’s second phase. Meanwhile, the first phase is still a work in progress.
Amid these diplomatic maneuvers, a somber reminder of the conflict’s human cost emerged on Tuesday. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the return of another hostage’s remains from Gaza, identified as IDF soldier Itay Chen. This follows Hamas’ earlier handover of 20 hostages’ remains under the U.S.-brokered ceasefire that began on October 10. For every Israeli hostage returned, Israel releases the remains of 15 Palestinians—a grim exchange that underscores the war’s devastating toll. So far, 270 Palestinian bodies have been handed over, with fewer than half identified due to limited DNA testing kits in Gaza. The Health Ministry, part of the Hamas-run government, relies on posting photos of remains online in hopes of recognition.
The conflict, triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel—which killed approximately 1,200 people and took 251 hostages—has led to Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 68,800 Palestinians have died, though Israel disputes these figures without providing an alternative count. Accusations of genocide by a UN commission have been denied by Israel, adding another layer of complexity to this already fraught situation.
Now, the big question for you: Is this stabilization force a necessary step toward peace, or does it risk prolonging instability in Gaza? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that needs your voice.
