The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Friday demanded an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. This landmark decision underscores the urgency of humanitarian intervention in the besieged territory.
It marks a pivotal moment in the global effort to address the escalating crisis in Gaza and the Middle East.
The “Demand for ceasefire in Gaza” resolution received 158 votes in favor, nine against, and 13 abstentions. Dissenting nations included the United States, Israel, and several Pacific island nations.
Countries such as Argentina, Czechia, and Hungary also voted against it.
The Assembly emphasized its commitment to a two-state solution. It envisions Gaza as part of a future Palestinian state living peacefully alongside Israel.
The resolution also denounced actions that jeopardize the authority of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
A second resolution reaffirmed support for UNRWA, adopted with 159 votes in favor, nine against, and 11 abstentions. This measure calls on Israel to follow international law.
UNRWA’s essential role in aiding over six million Palestinian refugees was highlighted amid mounting financial and operational challenges.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical stage. Yemen’s delegate described the territory as a “piece of hell.” Hunger has been weaponized as a tool of war.
Food prices have risen by over 1,000% since October 2023.
Vietnam’s Deputy Foreign Minister expressed frustration with the Security Council’s inaction. Repeated vetoes have blocked meaningful resolutions.
Saudi Arabia’s representative noted that vetoes undermine multilateralism and weaken global trust.
This deadlock in the Security Council has reignited calls for reform. Colombia’s delegate called the veto a “colonial and anti-democratic mechanism.”
Türkiye’s representative stressed that history will remember those who acted and those who failed.
China’s delegate criticized the United States’ use of its veto power.
“There is no justification,” he stated, as Gaza is turned to rubble.
Russia defended the principle of the veto but criticized its misuse.
Israel’s representative condemned the resolutions as “beyond logic.” He accused UNRWA of being infiltrated by Hamas. Holding letters allegedly warning of terrorist activities, he claimed the agency had failed its humanitarian mission.
In contrast, Iceland and Indonesia emphasized UNRWA’s vital role. Iceland has doubled its contributions to Palestinian aid. Ireland stressed that international humanitarian law must guide global actions.
Malaysia’s delegate called for the unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas. Victims include citizens from multiple UN member states. Iranian and Yemeni representatives condemned Israeli settlers’ violence and plans to annex Palestinian land.
The resolution also addressed Israel’s military actions in Syria. It condemned sovereignty violations and the occupation of the Golan Heights. Iran called for accountability for destroyed infrastructure.
Despite these resolutions, the global community remains divided. The General Assembly’s decisions carry moral weight but are non-binding. Their success relies on international cooperation.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens daily. Over 40,000 fatalities have been reported, and infrastructure lies in ruins. As debates over UNRWA’s mandate and veto reform continue, the world watches for meaningful change.
The UNGA’s demand for a ceasefire highlights a critical moment in the Israel-Palestine conflict. These resolutions amplify calls for accountability and reform. Their success depends on solidarity and prioritizing human rights above politics.