UN General Assembly Demands Compliance with International Law from The Israeli Entity

The United Nations General Assembly has taken a significant step by adopting a draft resolution that urges member states to ensure Israel adheres to international law, as concerns grow over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The resolution, introduced by Spain and supported by over 30 countries, received robust backing, with 149 votes in favor, 12 against, and 19 abstentions. It highlights the necessity for accountability and calls upon Israel to fulfill its legal obligations under international law.

Spanish UN envoy Hector Gomez Hernandez emphasized the urgency of the situation in Gaza, stating, “The international community must convey a strong message.” He encouraged all member nations to support the resolution, which advocates for a two-state solution and firmly opposes any attempts at demographic changes in both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. The resolution also demands an immediate cessation of settlement activities, land confiscation, home demolitions, forced evictions, and settler violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN envoy, described the resolution’s language as the most emphatic to date on these issues and called for immediate international action. He criticized Israel’s ongoing disregard for international law and urged for decisive action against its violations. Mansour highlighted that the resolution condemns the use of starvation as a method of warfare and the unlawful denial of humanitarian access, stressing the obligation to meet the basic needs of civilians in Gaza.

He further called for a cessation of arms, financial support, and trade that contribute to the oppression of Palestinians and the appropriation of their land. However, the United States expressed its opposition to the resolution. U.S. Charge d’Affaires ad interim Dorothy Shea labeled the measure as “another failure” of the UN to condemn Hamas. She deemed the resolution “unacceptable,” arguing that it does not support balanced measures that would call for the disarmament of violent terrorist groups or acknowledge Israel’s right to self-defense.

Shea criticized the resolution for failing to contribute to peace in Gaza, claiming it does not advance realistic diplomatic solutions and is filled with serious shortcomings.