U.S. Proposes International Stabilization Force for Gaza

The Trump administration has drafted a United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at establishing an International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza. This initiative is part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to maintain a ceasefire and facilitate the demilitarization of the region. The proposed resolution seeks a two-year mandate for the ISF, with the first troops expected to be deployed by January 2026. The force will operate under a unified command in coordination with Israel and Egypt, focusing on the demilitarization of armed groups, particularly Hamas.

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The draft resolution outlines the ISF's responsibilities, which include overseeing the disarmament of Hamas and training a new Palestinian police force. The ISF is intended to stabilize security in Gaza and ensure the destruction of military infrastructure used by Hamas. The resolution emphasizes that U.S. troops will not be deployed on the ground in Gaza but will instead play a coordination role outside the territory. The ISF is expected to operate until December 31, 2027, requiring renewal of its mandate thereafter.

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While the U.S. has engaged with various nations, including Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey, to contribute to the ISF, many countries have expressed hesitance. Concerns center around potential conflicts with Hamas, which has historically resisted disarmament. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan indicated that Turkey's participation would depend on the specifics of the UN mandate. Israel has voiced strong opposition to the presence of Turkish troops in Gaza and has been involved in drafting the resolution to ensure its interests are represented.

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Critics of the plan highlight the challenges of implementing a demilitarization mandate in a region where Hamas views disarmament as surrender. Analysts suggest that Arab states may be reluctant to deploy troops unless there is a clear pathway to Palestinian statehood, a condition opposed by the Israeli government. Additionally, the draft resolution has been criticized for sidelining the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank, until unspecified reforms are completed.

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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized the importance of an international mandate for the ISF, stating that many potential participants would only join under such a framework. Meanwhile, Israeli officials have indicated that they are closely monitoring the resolution's wording to prevent increased Security Council involvement.

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There is uncertainty regarding the level of support the draft resolution will receive at the Security Council. Approval requires at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes from any of the five permanent members, including Russia and China. The timeline for when the U.S. plans to present the draft for a vote remains unclear.

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• “We are ready to shoulder the burden for peace.” — Hakan Fidan, Turkish Foreign Minister

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• “These matters of composition, lack of clarity around the specifics of the disarmament mandate, and the uncertainties around what interaction and coordination will inevitably entail with the (Israel Defense Forces), undoubtedly raise challenges for launching,” — Lucy Kurtzer-Ellenbogen, Senior Fellow, Middle East Institute

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• “At the moment, there aren’t any major issues for us — the question is whether it will stay that way,” — Senior Israeli Official

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This proposed resolution marks a significant step in international efforts to stabilize Gaza, but its success will depend on the cooperation of various stakeholders and the resolution of complex political dynamics in the region.

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