CaliToday (16/11/2025): The high-stakes diplomatic move, designed to stabilize a post-Hamas Gaza, faces a competing counter-proposal from Russia that omits demilitarization.
UNITED NATIONS / WASHINGTON — The United States, under the Trump administration, is aggressively pushing the UN Security Council to authorize a large-scale international security force for Gaza, which would operate until at least 2027. The proposal is a central and critical pillar of the 20-point peace plan recently unveiled by Washington.
The diplomatic groundwork for this move has been laid through continuous talks with key regional partners, including Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE. The effort aims to solidify the October ceasefire and establish a stable foundation for a Palestinian future free from Hamas rule.
A "Security Enforcement" Mandate
If approved, the force could be deployed as early as January 2026. Crucially, diplomatic sources describe its intended mission as more robust than traditional peacekeeping. It would be a "security enforcement" operation, tasked with ensuring stability and preventing a militant resurgence. The mandate would include an option to extend beyond the 2027 deadline if necessary.
According to diplomatic sources, the U.S. is seeking the UN's "political cover" for the mission. This UN authorization is seen as essential to encourage other nations to contribute troops, allowing them to participate in a UN-sanctioned operation rather than a unilateral, U.S.-led one.
Cautious Allies and Vocal Critics
Israel has reportedly expressed caution about deep UN involvement, but understands that such a force may be a necessary step to manage the post-Hamas transition.
However, the move has drawn sharp criticism from those who see it as a major, and risky, U.S. policy shift. Critics argue it grants too much authority to a UN body they view as "biased," one that has, in their view, often "avoided condemning Hamas" and "interfered with Israel's right to self-defense."
Russia's Competing Vision
As anticipated, Russia has tabled a competing counter-resolution at the Security Council, presenting a starkly different vision for the future of Gaza.
The Russian proposal demands:
An immediate, unconditional ceasefire.
The complete withdrawal of all foreign forces.
A new UN mission based on the "1967 borders" framework.
A reconstruction process "led by Palestinians."
Critically, the Russian draft makes no mention of demilitarization or the disarming of militant groups a non-starter for Israel and the United States, who view it as the paramount requirement for any lasting peace.
A Historic, and Risky, Opportunity
The stakes for Gaza are immense.
If the U.S. proposal passes, the region could enter a rare period of stability. This would allow for safer streets, the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid, and the beginnings of economic recovery, giving residents a chance to live without the grip of Hamas.
However, if the UN "tilts toward softer proposals" or if the Russian-style resolution prevails, analysts warn the process could collapse into prolonged chaos. This would risk "rebuilding" Gaza without ever removing the root causes of the conflict: entrenched militants, stockpiles of weapons, and the persistent influence of Iran.
This moment represents a historic opportunity for change, but one that is fraught with risk.