The US has intensified calls for the implementation of the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, seeking a UN mandate after Russia drafted a rival proposal that may limit the US’ influence in Gaza.
The US proposal seeks the disarmament of Hamas and, at the same time, asks for the deployment of an international stabilisation force in the Gaza strip.
Other than US President Donald Trump, eight other countries have played a role in securing the ongoing fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after more than two years of a devastating war in Palestine.
It may be noted that a majority of these countries have no role in the UN Security Council, with only one – Pakistan – being a current council member.
Meanwhile, Russia’s UN mission said in a statement that it devised a peace plan because the UN Security Council, which is responsible for maintaining international peace and security, “should be given a rightful role and the necessary tools to ensure accountability and control.”
Also Read: Israel and Hamas agree on first phase of Gaza peace plan
“We wish to add that our document does not contradict the American initiative,” the Russian mission said.
Earlier this week, a joint statement issued by Qatar, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Jordan, and Turkey, raised objections in the US’ proposal for Gaza, prompting Washington to revise the draft to include clearer language on Palestinian self-determination, as per information by a UN diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity.
He said that they expect proposals from the two rival nations to go to vote early next week.
Speculation says the American plan could secure the nine votes it needs to be passed, but that Russia and China may likely abstain from voting than exercise their vetoes.
The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, had said Trump’s peace plan “is the best path to peace in the Middle East” and that the US resolution would enable progress.
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