The UN Security Council adopted a new plan for Gaza on Monday, but the vote was characterized by a significant split, with permanent members Russia and China abstaining and sharply criticizing the US-led initiative. The resolution, which passed, endorses President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan. It authorizes a “Board of Peace,” chaired by Trump, to oversee reconstruction and an “international stabilization force” (ISF) to demilitarize the enclave.
The lack of support from Russia and China underscores the plan’s weak international foundation. Both countries’ ambassadors complained that the resolution fails to provide any clear role for the United Nations. Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya argued that the council was ceding “complete control” to the US-led bodies, “the modalities of which we know nothing about.”
The US, which drafted the resolution, praised it as a “historic” achievement. Ambassador Mike Waltz told the council the plan “dismantles Hamas’ grip” and “charts a possible pathway for Palestinian self-determination.” This “pathway” clause, however, has created its own set of problems.
On the ground, the plan faces a wall of opposition from Hamas. The militant group, which rules Gaza, issued a statement rejecting the resolution as “international guardianship.” It vowed it “will not disarm,” directly challenging the ISF’s mandate and setting the stage for conflict.
While Hamas rejects the plan, the Palestinian Authority (PA) has welcomed it. Diplomats said the PA’s endorsement was crucial in preventing a Russian veto. However, the “statehood” clause that the PA supports has been publicly opposed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This leaves the plan in the unenviable position of being opposed by Hamas, Israel’s right-wing, and two permanent members of the Security Council.