France and Britain Draft UN Resolution for Gaza International Force

A new international force for Gaza is moving closer to reality. France and Britain are finalizing a United Nations Security Council resolution to establish it. This planning comes as a U.S.-brokered ceasefire holds in the region.

The initiative is being coordinated with the United States. According to Reuters, the goal is to stabilize security in the Palestinian enclave. A UN mandate is seen as crucial for providing a legal foundation.

Proposed Force Structure and Mandate

This stabilisation force will not be a formal UN peacekeeping mission. Instead, the resolution is expected to mirror one used for a mission in Haiti. That model authorizes contributing nations to “take all necessary measures,” which includes the use of force.

Discussions are ongoing to define the force’s exact terms of reference. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the resolution is being developed. He noted that the wider framework for the mission is not yet fully agreed upon.

Potential Contributors and Broader Support

Several nations are being considered to contribute troops to the operation. The United States is reportedly speaking with Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt. Qatar and Azerbaijan are also potential partners.

Indonesia has previously offered a significant contingent. President Prabowo Subianto told the UN General Assembly that Indonesia was prepared to send 20,000 or more troops. This would be contingent on the passage of a supporting UN resolution.

The plan has received broad international backing. The UN General Assembly recently voted overwhelmingly to endorse a declaration supporting such a mission. This signals a strong global consensus for a temporary international force in Gaza.

The proposed Gaza international force represents a critical step toward lasting security. Its success hinges on a clear UN mandate and robust international participation. This initiative aims to create a stable environment for future peace efforts.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the purpose of the proposed Gaza force?

The force is intended to stabilize security in Gaza. It would operate under a UN mandate to help maintain order. This follows the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

Which countries are leading the effort?

France and Britain are drafting the UN Security Council resolution. They are working in close coordination with the United States. The resolution could be presented within days.

How large could the force be?

Specific numbers are not yet final. However, Indonesia has publicly offered to contribute 20,000 troops. Other nations are also expected to provide personnel.

How is this different from a UN peacekeeping mission?

It will not be a formal, UN-funded peacekeeping operation. The model is based on a previous authorization for a force in Haiti. This allows for a more flexible multinational coalition.

What happens next for the resolution?

France, Britain, and the US are finalizing the text. It will then be presented to the full UN Security Council for a vote. Adoption requires support from the council’s members.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press