After protracted negotiations, the UN Security Council voted last week to support Donald Trump’s plan for Gaza. The proposal, which was passed 13-0, with Russia and China abstaining, includes the disarmament of Hamas and demilitarisation of Gaza, provision for an international stabilisation force, the rebuilding of Gaza and its control by an appointed body that includes Palestinian technocrats.
States supporting the motion viewed it as an uncomfortable compromise, agreed primarily to allow some further progress to be made. There is also a more general belief that the worst is over, with aid agencies reporting a drop in public interest. The reality on the ground tells a very different story, though.
Israel remains in firm control of Gaza and is increasing its violence in the occupied West Bank, as well as expanding its war against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
