UN Approves Gaza Plan With Transitional Administration and Force

The United Nations Security Council has approved a new resolution that establishes a transitional administration in Gaza and authorises the deployment of an International Stabilization Force. The measure, drafted by the United States as part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan, was adopted on November 17, 2025, with 13 votes in favour. Russia and China abstained, but no member used a veto.

According to the resolution, the international force will support security, assist in border management, coordinate humanitarian aid and work closely with Egypt, Israel and a vetted Palestinian police force. The measure also outlines conditions for a “credible pathway” toward Palestinian self-determination and eventual statehood once governance reforms are implemented and reconstruction in Gaza progresses.

What Happened

The Security Council voted on the US-drafted resolution in New York on Monday. The document provides a mandate for an international force to help maintain stability in Gaza and support the implementation of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. It also includes steps for demilitarisation and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, based on security benchmarks and agreed timelines.

Where and When

• Venue: UN Security Council Headquarters

• Date: November 17, 2025

• Outcome: Resolution passed 13–0 with two abstentions (Russia and China)

How the Resolution Works

The resolution introduces:

• A transitional administration for Gaza

• An International Stabilization Force with authority to use necessary measures

• Support for border security and humanitarian operations

• A framework for demilitarisation of non-state armed groups

• A process for the eventual withdrawal of Israeli forces

• A diplomatic basis for Palestinian self-determination, conditional on reforms within the Palestinian Authority

The measure also states that conditions may now be suitable for a “credible pathway” to Palestinian statehood once administrative, security and reconstruction benchmarks are met.

Statements and Reactions

Hamas Response

Hamas rejected the resolution, stating that it does not meet the political or humanitarian rights of Palestinians. The group said the plan imposes an international trusteeship over Gaza and criticised the clause on disarmament, arguing it positions the international force as a “party to the conflict”.

US Position

The US Ambassador to the UN said the vote represents an important step toward long-term stability in Gaza and supports the possibility of both peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians.

Algeria’s View

Algeria’s ambassador welcomed efforts that led to the ceasefire but emphasised that lasting peace cannot be achieved without justice and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

Israel’s Reaction

Israel’s Prime Minister expressed strong opposition to any reference to Palestinian statehood and reaffirmed the government’s intention to fully demilitarise Gaza. Israel’s National Security Minister also criticised the resolution and made statements rejecting any international recognition of Palestinian statehood.

US Presidential Comment

President Trump said the international board overseeing Gaza’s transitional phase would include global leaders and thanked multiple countries—including Qatar, Egypt, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Turkiye and Jordan—for supporting the initiative.

Expert and Analyst Perspective

Several regional and international analysts noted that the resolution reflects the current power dynamics in Gaza and the broader Middle East. Analysts said the measure changes administrative control but does not fully address concerns about long-term sovereignty or the humanitarian situation. Some observers believe the resolution maintains significant influence for the US and Israel in shaping Gaza’s future.

Despite the ceasefire in place since October 10, airstrikes and limited humanitarian access continue to be reported in Gaza. The region remains in urgent need of aid, reconstruction and a political framework that addresses long-standing issues of governance, security and self-determination.