A UN Security Council resolution aimed at establishing an International Stabilization Force in Gaza could be finalized within two weeks, but several contentious issues may delay its adoption. The proposed force is meant to bring stability to the region after years of violence and unrest.
The negotiations are complicated by disagreements over key aspects of the force's mandate, including US military leadership and the relationship with the Palestinian civil police force. Additionally, there is a debate about whether Israel should be required to withdraw from Gaza within a specific timeframe or if disarmament of Hamas should be conditional on the Israeli withdrawal.
Turkey has expressed willingness to contribute troops to the force, but its support for Hamas has raised concerns among Israel and other countries. The United States appears likely to play a leading role in the force's leadership, with many Western diplomats believing that American involvement is necessary to ensure the force can effectively enforce ceasefire agreements.
However, some Muslim leaders are hesitant to participate in a peacekeeping mission, as they prefer a more supportive role for their troops rather than being seen as enforcers. The force will likely operate independently of a new US civil military coordination center focused on humanitarian work.
Palestinian officials have expressed concerns about the need for a secure and stable Gaza, with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi stating that Israel's presence in 53% of the territory creates an unsustainable security situation. The establishment of a deconfliction mechanism is also seen as crucial to prevent clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian civilians.
Despite these challenges, Western diplomats remain optimistic about the prospects for the force, noting that progress has been made faster than expected. However, many acknowledge that the mission faces significant hurdles and will require sustained international support to succeed.
The negotiations are complicated by disagreements over key aspects of the force's mandate, including US military leadership and the relationship with the Palestinian civil police force. Additionally, there is a debate about whether Israel should be required to withdraw from Gaza within a specific timeframe or if disarmament of Hamas should be conditional on the Israeli withdrawal.
Turkey has expressed willingness to contribute troops to the force, but its support for Hamas has raised concerns among Israel and other countries. The United States appears likely to play a leading role in the force's leadership, with many Western diplomats believing that American involvement is necessary to ensure the force can effectively enforce ceasefire agreements.
However, some Muslim leaders are hesitant to participate in a peacekeeping mission, as they prefer a more supportive role for their troops rather than being seen as enforcers. The force will likely operate independently of a new US civil military coordination center focused on humanitarian work.
Palestinian officials have expressed concerns about the need for a secure and stable Gaza, with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi stating that Israel's presence in 53% of the territory creates an unsustainable security situation. The establishment of a deconfliction mechanism is also seen as crucial to prevent clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian civilians.
Despite these challenges, Western diplomats remain optimistic about the prospects for the force, noting that progress has been made faster than expected. However, many acknowledge that the mission faces significant hurdles and will require sustained international support to succeed.