UN debates resolution for Israel to end occupation of Palestinian territories
- The UN General Assembly voted to demand Israel end its occupation of Palestinian territories within 12 months, following an ICJ ruling declaring the occupation illegal.
- The resolution received 124 votes in favor, with 14 countries voting against and 43 abstaining, highlighting a significant divide among UN member states.
- This resolution is seen as a pivotal moment in the Palestinian struggle for justice, with calls for Israel to comply with international law gaining momentum.
On Wednesday, the United Nations General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to demand that Israel end its occupation of Palestinian territories within a 12-month timeframe. This resolution, which received 124 votes in favor, follows an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice in July, declaring Israel's presence in the West Bank and East Jerusalem illegal. The vote saw 14 countries, including the United States and Israel, opposing the resolution, while 43 nations abstained. The resolution was introduced by Palestine, which gained new privileges in May, allowing it to submit proposals to the assembly. Palestinian ambassador Riyad Mansour hailed the vote as a significant moment in the struggle for freedom and justice. In contrast, Israel's ambassador, Danny Danon, criticized the outcome, labeling it a shameful decision that supports what he termed 'diplomatic terrorism' by the Palestinian Authority. Although neither the ICJ's advisory opinion nor the UN resolution is binding, they could further isolate Israel on the international stage. World leaders are set to convene in New York for the annual UN General Assembly, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas are expected to address the assembly. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International welcomed the resolution, urging Israel to comply with the World Court's ruling. The resolution reflects a growing international consensus on the need for Israel to end its long-standing occupation, which has been a source of conflict and tension in the region since the 1967 war.