The UN Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution Monday establishing a transitional Board of Peace and authorizing an International Stabilization Force in Gaza.
The resolution garnered 13 votes in favor, with China and Russia abstaining, highlighting lingering concerns over governance, sovereignty, and oversight of the territory.
US envoy Mike Waltz called the resolution a “bold, pragmatic blueprint” emerging from Trump’s 20-point plan and diplomatic talks with several Muslim-majority nations.
He said the plan charts a pathway for Palestinian self-determination, promising rockets would give way to olive branches and hope on the political horizon.
Waltz stressed the Board of Peace, led by Trump, would underpin stabilization efforts while the ISF would dismantle terrorist infrastructure and secure civilian safety.
The resolution authorizes BoP and ISF operations until December 31, 2027, requiring coordination with Egypt, Israel, and other member states for further reauthorizations.
Russia’s envoy Vassily Nebenzia criticised the text, calling it vague on legal matters and transfer of control to the Palestinian Authority, and reminiscent of colonial-era practices.
He argued the resolution fails to adequately incorporate Palestinian opinion, potentially allowing the ISF to operate autonomously without local input.
China’s envoy Fu Cong echoed concerns, describing the resolution as vague and insufficiently reflective of Palestinian sovereignty and post-war governance rights.
Despite the abstentions, Waltz hailed the adoption as a “significant step toward a stable Gaza,” framing the resolution as a pathway to security and political reform.
The vote underscores deep international divisions over Gaza’s future while demonstrating US-led efforts to shape regional stabilization and post-conflict governance structures.