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The UN General Assembly is set to vote on a resolution demanding that Israel end its occupation of Palestinian territories, including Gaza and the West Bank, within one year. This measure, influenced by a recent International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling deeming Israel’s presence in these areas unlawful, is significant as it reflects global sentiment regarding the ongoing conflict.
Scheduled for a vote on Wednesday, the resolution also calls for sanctions and an arms embargo against Israel. The backdrop of this move is the escalating violence in the West Bank and the nearing anniversary of Israel’s conflict with Hamas, which began on October 7, 2023.
Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, vehemently opposed the resolution, labeling it a “reward for terrorism.” He criticized the focus on Palestinian grievances while neglecting the violence perpetrated by Hamas, calling the assembly’s discussions a “Palestinian circus.” His remarks underscore Israel’s frustration over perceived bias in international forums.
While the resolution itself would not carry legal weight, its adoption could symbolize widespread international condemnation of Israel’s actions. Notably, the UN General Assembly operates without veto powers, unlike the Security Council, allowing for a broader expression of global opinion.
Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour emphasized the urgency of the resolution, claiming that Palestinians are facing an “existential threat” due to the ongoing occupation. The proposed measures include an immediate halt to Israeli settlement expansion, the evacuation of settlers, and reparations for damage caused during the occupation.
The U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, criticized the resolution, highlighting its flaws and arguing that it fails to recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization and Israel’s right to defend itself. She expressed concern that the resolution might complicate efforts to achieve a two-state solution and create tangible benefits for Palestinians.
The assembly’s discussions come amid rising international pressure on Israel to alter its policies in the occupied territories. Mansour noted that over 60 nations have expressed a desire to address the assembly prior to the vote, suggesting a strong interest in the outcome of this pivotal resolution.