The UN Security Council has adopted a US-drafted resolution, backed by Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and other Arab states, to advance the 20-point peace plan for Gaza. The UK voted in favour of the resolution, which establishes a mandate for an International Stabilisation Force and calls for a significant increase in humanitarian assistance to Gaza. The vote marks a major step toward implementing a framework aimed at ending two years of conflict and moving toward long-term peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.
Adopted on 17 November, the resolution builds on diplomatic momentum from recent talks in Sharm El Sheikh and reflects broad regional support, including endorsement from Arab and Islamic states. The Palestinian Authority has also welcomed the plan, which outlines transitional arrangements leading to future Palestinian Authority governance in Gaza. The resolution stresses that humanitarian aid must be rapidly expanded to meet urgent needs on the ground.
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the importance of unified international action to turn the peace plan into a sustainable political solution. She emphasized that the resolution provides the UN mandate necessary for deploying the International Stabilisation Force and reiterated the urgent need to open all crossings, lift restrictions, and deliver large-scale aid into Gaza. She also reaffirmed that progress toward a two-state solution remains essential for achieving lasting security and peace.
In New York, UK Charge d’Affaires James Kariuki underscored the need for swift deployment of the Stabilisation Force to support the ceasefire and prevent any vacuum that could be exploited by Hamas. He stressed that the resolution’s transitional steps must be implemented in line with international law and with full respect for Palestinian sovereignty, the unity of Gaza and the West Bank, and the strengthening of Palestinian institutions to enable a reformed Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza effectively.
With humanitarian needs in Gaza continuing to grow, the UK reiterated its commitment to pushing for increased aid flows and keeping all border crossings open. The government also reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian Authority’s reform agenda as part of efforts to stabilize Gaza and advance a broader peace process.
