Thu Sep 19 08:08:25 UTC 2024: ## UN Demands Israel End “Unlawful Presence” in Occupied Territories Within 12 Months
The United Nations General Assembly has passed a non-binding resolution demanding Israel end its “unlawful presence” in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip, within 12 months. The resolution, drafted by Palestine, was approved by a vote of 124 to 14, with 43 abstentions.
The resolution is based on a July advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which concluded that Israel’s continued presence in these territories is illegal under international law. The ICJ also called for the evacuation of Israeli settlements and reparations for damages.
While the resolution is non-binding, it carries significant symbolic weight as it reflects the positions of the majority of UN member states. The Palestinian ambassador hailed the vote as a “turning point” in their struggle for freedom and justice, while Israel denounced it as “diplomatic terrorism”.
The vote comes amidst escalating violence in the region, following a year of war in Gaza triggered by Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 41,110 people in Gaza and more than 680 Palestinians in the West Bank, according to the UN.
Israel, which insists the Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land, has rejected the ICJ opinion and the subsequent UN resolution. The US, which voted against the resolution, warned that it was one-sided and selectively interpreted the ICJ’s opinion.
The UK abstained, stating that while they support the ICJ’s findings, the resolution lacks clarity to effectively advance a negotiated two-state solution.
The passing of the resolution has been described as a “pivotal and historic moment” for the Palestinian cause and international law by the Palestinian Authority. The resolution has been met with strong criticism from Israel, who has vowed to respond.
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