UN Security Council Endorses Foreign Stabilization Force for Gaza

The United Nations Security Council voted to back a resolution authorizing a Board of Peace and an International Stabilization Force to operate in Gaza through the end of 2027, signaling broad international support for a new multinational presence intended to stabilize the territory after prolonged conflict. Diplomats at United Nations headquarters said the resolution passed on November 18, reflecting a rare alignment among permanent Council members on a sensitive Middle East issue.

The measure endorses a plan associated with former United States president Donald Trump and establishes the legal basis for foreign personnel to assist with security, movement of goods and people, and the protection of civilians. A US official told The Times of Israel that Washington is aiming for the foreign force to begin deployment at the beginning of 2026, a timeline that will require complex logistical and diplomatic preparations with regional partners and troop contributing countries.

The resolution grants the Board of Peace and the International Stabilization Force authority to remain in Gaza until the end of 2027. Council members framed the mandate as temporary and focused on creating conditions for longer term governance and reconstruction, while stressing the need for respect of civilian protection and international humanitarian law. The text of the resolution sets expectations for coordination with humanitarian agencies and for regular reporting to the Security Council, though specifics on troop numbers and rules of engagement were left to subsequent negotiations.

Regional capitals reacted with cautious pragmatism. Neighboring states face competing pressures to support stability while guarding their own security and political interests. The deployment plan will require negotiation over bases, border arrangements and the role of Palestinian authorities. The authorization does not erase sensitivities about sovereignty and the optics of foreign forces operating on Palestinian territory, issues certain to animate debates in Arab capitals and among Palestinian communities.

At United Nations headquarters, the vote took on heightened symbolism as diplomats sought to avoid a veto showdown. Observers had noted in the hours before the vote that major powers appeared willing to allow the draft measure to proceed. As journalist Rami Ayari noted on social media before the vote, "The #US draft resolution on #Gaza is in blue and due to be voted on at 5 pm today New York Time. Most diplomats I've spoken to expect it will pass and that #Russia and #China would not veto it. It is never done until it is done but that is where things stand currently."

Humanitarian agencies welcomed commitments to facilitate aid access but warned that authorization alone will not address the immediate needs of civilians. Aid groups will press for unfettered corridors and guarantees that stabilization operations do not impede emergency relief. Legal experts said the Council mandate provides an international framework that could reduce legal ambiguity for troops on the ground, but implementation will determine whether the force bolsters protection or fuels new grievances.

As governments now begin the complex task of assembling a multinational contingent and negotiating operational details, the international community faces a test in translating diplomatic consensus into effective, accountable action that respects the rights and aspirations of Gaza's population.