Egypt and Turkey wary of ‘disarmament’ language in Gaza UN resolution, sources says

Arab and Muslim nations are raising alarms over a proposed US-led international stabilization force in Gaza, fearing they may be coerced into forcibly disarming Hamas. A draft United Nations resolution, obtained by Middle East Eye, outlines the force’s role in demilitarizing Gaza, including dismantling military and terror infrastructure. Egyptian officials emphasize the need for a negotiated approach to disarmament, advocating for amnesty for Hamas fighters who surrender their weapons. They stress that Egypt will not undertake tasks Israel failed to accomplish. Turkish sources criticize the draft, arguing it transforms the force into an enforcer of Israeli security rather than a peacekeeping body. They suggest the force should focus on conflict prevention, border control, and training Palestinian security personnel under a future government. While Palestinian support for Hamas remains strong, there are indications that regional pressure may influence Hamas to consider relinquishing certain weapons. The US plan, part of President Trump’s 20-point peace proposal, faces skepticism due to its lack of consultation with key regional players. Critics argue the force must avoid being perceived as an Israeli proxy to gain legitimacy among Palestinians. The draft resolution proposes a ‘board of peace’ chaired by Trump, with a US military coordination center in Israel overseeing operations. Unlike traditional UN peacekeeping missions, this force would operate independently of UN command, raising concerns about oversight and accountability.