A rival draft resolution tabled by Russia is also being formally considered, but it is not yet clear whether the Council will vote on that text this afternoon.
What the American text proposes
The draft would establish an International Stabilization Force (ISF) that would work with Israel and Egypt with an initial two-year mandate.
A broad overview of the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian issue. UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov (on screen) briefs members.
Its responsibilities would include securing Gaza’s borders, protecting civilians, facilitating humanitarian assistance, supporting the training and deployment of a reconstituted Palestinian police force, and overseeing the permanent dismantling of weapons held by Hamas and other armed groups in the enclave.
The text also indicates that Israeli forces would withdraw completely once they have established security and operational control throughout the territory.
A transitional governance mechanism called the Peace Board, chaired by President Donald Trump under the US peace plan that underpinned the Oct. 8 ceasefire, would be formed to coordinate humanitarian, security and reconstruction planning.
This would guide Gaza toward a reformed Palestinian ruling authority. The resolution outlines a path toward Palestinian self-determination and eventual statehood, linked to responsible governance and reconstruction milestones.
Why is it important
If adopted, the resolution would provide international legal authority for a multinational security mission, deemed necessary for deployment by potential troop-contributing countries and donors. No UN peacekeeping presence is planned.
It could represent a decisive transition from active conflict to stabilization and reconstruction, combining security guarantees with governance and service reforms.
The vote also tests the Council’s ability to agree on a post-conflict framework for Gaza at a critical diplomatic moment, amid continuing humanitarian needs and heightened regional tensions.
Washington has reportedly warned that if the Council does not act now, it could lead to new infighting and the collapse of the fragile ceasefire.
Key background
The draft builds on recent international proposals calling for steps toward a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the demilitarization of armed groups, and reconstruction led by reformed Palestinian institutions.
Negotiations within the Council have reportedly focused on the governance structure, operational command, the sequencing of security tasks and the degree of involvement of the Palestinian Authority.
Some members have expressed concerns regarding external oversight and clarity about the mission’s final status.
Rival Russian draft
Russia has circulated an alternative resolution directing the UN Secretary-General to develop options for a stabilization force without endorsing the Peace Board model. It is not yet known whether this text will also be voted on today.
what to look at
• If the US resolution receives at least nine affirmative votes without a veto from one of the five permanent members of the council: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States.
• Which Member States can commit personnel and equipment to the new force, and on what basis?
• Israel’s position on the proposed withdrawal sequence and governance structure
• The status and future of the Russian draft if only the US text is put to a vote.
Humanitarian update
• Conditions remain very difficult, with many Gazans struggling to access essentials after heavy rain and flooding affecting more than 13,000 families.
• At least 9,000 tents, 83,000 tarps and 59,000 blankets were distributed.but access limits and item restrictions are slowing expansion before winter.
• Food delivery volumes have increased, allowing plans to resume two food parcels plus flour per householdfollowing previous reductions in the north due to access delays.
• Debris crews have removed 100,000 tonsBut in all of Gaza there are around 58 million tons left, of which only half can currently be accessed.
• Between Thursday and Sunday, more than 5,400 tons of aid were collectedincluding accommodation, medical supplies and food, and the Zikim crossing has now reopened after two months.