The Israeli government, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, is reportedly advocating for a strong mandate from the UN Security Council for the international force slated for deployment in the Gaza Strip. According to sources, Israel aims for the force to have the authority to actively disarm Hamas.
These efforts precede an expected vote in the UN Security Council regarding the proposed international presence. The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation has quoted officials stating that Israel desires the international stabilization force to be authorized under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. This would empower the force to enforce peace, potentially through the use of force, rather than merely maintaining it under Chapter VI.
Chapter VII grants a peacekeeping force extensive powers, including the ability to deploy without the consent of all parties involved. It also allows the force to use military means to maintain order and security, protect civilians, disarm armed groups, and proactively prevent escalations on the ground.
The composition of the international force will likely depend on the mandate it receives from the Security Council, according to the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation.
It is worth noting that the United States has drafted a resolution regarding the international force, based on a previously proposed plan for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The force is intended to replace the Israeli military presence upon entering the territory.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis. Despite a ceasefire agreement reached last month, reports indicate continued Israeli military actions within the Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties and hindering the delivery of essential aid.
