The UN General Assembly (UNGA) has overwhelmingly approved a non-binding resolution calling for Israel to end its occupation of Palestinian territory within the next year.
On Wednesday, the resolution passed with 124 votes in favor, 14 against, and 43 abstentions, during the UNGA’s 10th emergency special session focused on Israeli actions in East Jerusalem and other occupied Palestinian territories, according to Xinhua.
The resolution, introduced by the State of Palestine and backed by over two dozen countries, demands that Israel fulfill its legal responsibilities under international law, including those highlighted by the International Court of Justice.
It calls for Israel to end its “unlawful presence” in the Occupied Palestinian Territory within 12 months.
India chose to abstain on Wednesday as the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly passed a resolution demanding an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestine within a year.
Mohamed Issa Abushahab, the UAE’s representative to the UN, emphasized the need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, citing unimpeded aid access, a ceasefire, and the enforcement of relevant Security Council resolutions.
He also called for the resumption of a credible peace process to achieve a two-state solution, advocating for Palestine’s full statehood and UN membership.
Riyad Mansour, Palestine’s representative, reiterated the call for an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, stressing the Palestinian people’s desire for freedom and self-determination, not just survival.
“The time has come to end the suffering,” Mansour said, affirming that Palestinians wish to live freely and safely, like any other people seeking peace and security. – (With inputs from IANS)