Hamas rejects UN Gaza resolution, citing sovereignty concerns

The Hamas movement has issued a firm rejection of a United Nations Security Council resolution passed on Monday that authorizes an international stabilization force for the Gaza Strip. The group condemned the US-drafted measure, stating it imposes an unwanted external control mechanism over the Palestinian territory.

A Violation of Sovereignty

In a statement released on Telegram, Hamas declared that "the resolution imposes an international guardianship mechanism on the Gaza Strip, which our people and their factions reject." The group specifically objected to tasks assigned to the proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF), including disarming Palestinian factions. It argued that this "strips it of its neutrality and turns it into a party to the conflict in favor of the occupation."

Contrasting Visions for International Role

The resolution, which secured 13 votes in favor with Russia and China abstaining, mandates the ISF and a Board of Peace to oversee governance and security in Gaza until at least December 2027. Hamas countered that any international presence should be limited to border monitoring and ceasefire supervision under full UN control, rather than operating internally within Gaza. This stance highlights a fundamental disagreement with the resolution's framework.

Regional Context and Acknowledged Efforts

The US government expressed gratitude to the Security Council and several nations for their support, specifically naming Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Jordan, and Türkiye for backing the diplomatic effort. The resolution follows a prior ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement between the warring parties, indicating ongoing but deeply contentious international efforts to manage the conflict.