The United Nations General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution on Wednesday, calling for Israel to end its “unlawful presence” in the Occupied Palestinian Territories within 12 months. The resolution was supported by 124 countries, while 14, including Israel and the U.S., voted against it, with 43 countries abstaining.
This resolution, drafted by Palestinian representatives, is rooted in a July advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which deemed Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza as illegal under international law. While the resolution is not enforceable, it carries significant political weight, reflecting global sentiment on the ongoing conflict.
Palestinian diplomats hailed the decision as a victory in their struggle for self-determination, while Israel condemned it as “diplomatic terrorism.” The Israeli government accused the resolution of promoting terrorism and hindering peace efforts, claiming it would empower Hamas, which controls Gaza. Israel has consistently disputed claims that their settlements in the occupied regions violate international law.
The U.S., Israel’s ally, strongly criticized the resolution. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called the measure “one-sided” and warned that it would not contribute to a lasting peace. The UK also abstained from voting, with its representative explaining that while the UK agreed with many of the ICJ’s findings, the resolution lacked the clarity necessary for advancing peace.
This resolution follows a year of escalating violence in the region, with more than 41,110 deaths in Gaza and increased tensions in the West Bank, where 680 Palestinians and 22 Israelis have been killed. As the conflict continues, the international community remains divided on how to address the crisis.
