The United States has just dropped a bombshell proposal at the United Nations: a stabilization force in Gaza that could last until 2027. But here's where it gets controversial—this plan, part of Donald Trump's blueprint to end the Israel-Hamas conflict, is already sparking debate among global powers. Could this be the key to lasting peace, or is it a recipe for further division? Let’s dive in.
According to a draft text shared by the U.S., this international force would operate for at least two years if approved by the U.N. Security Council. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about troops on the ground; it’s about demilitarizing Gaza, disarming Hamas, and ensuring humanitarian aid flows without interruption. Sounds ambitious, right? But is it realistic?
The draft, confirmed by two anonymous U.S. officials due to its sensitive nature, is just the starting point for what promises to be intense negotiations. Arab nations and other potential contributors have one condition: U.N. backing. Without it, they’re unlikely to commit troops. As U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres put it, ‘Whatever entity is created in Gaza must have the legitimacy of a Security Council mandate.’ But with China and Russia likely to oppose the U.S. push, will this plan even get off the ground?
Here’s the kicker: the draft calls for the force to oversee demilitarization, decommission weapons from non-state groups, and work alongside a ‘Board of Peace’ to temporarily govern Gaza. It also emphasizes securing borders, training Palestinian police, and ensuring aid isn’t diverted. But how will Hamas, which hasn’t fully accepted disarmament, respond? And what happens if the ceasefire, already fragile, collapses?
Controversy alert: While the U.S. sees this as a path to stability, critics argue it could entrench foreign influence in Gaza. Hamish Falconer, the U.K.’s Middle East minister, stresses the need for a Security Council mandate but warns that many questions remain unanswered. Phase one of Trump’s plan is still unfinished, and phase two is shrouded in uncertainty.
Meanwhile, the human cost of this conflict continues to unfold. On Tuesday, the remains of another Israeli hostage were returned to Israel, bringing the total to 21 since the ceasefire began in October. For every Israeli returned, Israel releases the remains of 15 Palestinians—a grim exchange that highlights the war’s devastating toll. Forensic identification is a challenge, with Gaza’s Health Ministry relying on online photos due to a lack of DNA testing kits.
The war, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages, has claimed over 68,800 Palestinian lives, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Israel disputes these figures but hasn’t provided an alternative count. Accusations of genocide loom, denied by Israel but investigated by the U.N.
So, here’s the big question: Can a stabilization force truly bring peace to Gaza, or will it become another flashpoint in this decades-long conflict? What do you think? Is this plan a step forward or a misstep? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
