The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution demanding Israel end its occupation of Palestinian territories within a year. This decision, made on September 18, 2024, received 124 votes in favor, with 43 abstentions and 15 votes against, including those from Israel and the United States.
The resolution, drafted by the Palestinian Authority, comes in the wake of a July 2024 advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that deemed Israel's occupation and settlements in Palestinian territories illegal. While the ICJ recommended withdrawal "as rapidly as possible," the General Assembly resolution imposes a specific 12-month deadline.
This action marks a significant development in the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has its roots in the 1967 Middle East war when Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. These areas, historically part of Palestine, are sought by Palestinians for their future state.
The resolution also calls on member states to consider ceasing the importation of products from Israeli settlements and to refrain from transferring arms to Israel if there are reasonable grounds to suspect their use in occupied territories.
Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Ambassador to the UN, urged countries to vote against the resolution, arguing that it undermines the prospect of a two-state solution. The U.S., a long-time ally and arms supplier to Israel, has consistently opposed unilateral measures in this conflict.
"Each country has a vote, and the world is watching us. Please stand on the right side of history. With international law. With freedom. With peace."
In contrast, Danny Danon, Israel's UN Ambassador, criticized the General Assembly for not condemning the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas militants that sparked the recent Gaza conflict. He described the resolution as "diplomatic terrorism."
The adoption of this resolution comes at a critical time, just days before world leaders are set to gather in New York for the annual UN meeting. Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister, and Mahmoud Abbas, Palestinian President, are scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 26, 2024.
This vote reflects the growing international concern over the situation in the region. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life. According to Palestinian health authorities, over 41,000 people have been killed in Gaza, while Israeli tallies report around 1,200 deaths from the initial Hamas attack.
The Palestinian Authority's ability to propose this resolution stems from its recent acquisition of additional rights and privileges at the UN, including a seat among member states in the assembly hall. While General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, they carry significant political weight in the international arena.
As the world watches the developments in this long-standing conflict, the implementation and impact of this resolution remain to be seen. The international community continues to grapple with finding a path towards lasting peace in the region, balancing the aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.