The UN General Assembly in New York called by a large majority for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in the Gaza Strip. At an emergency meeting yesterday, 120 of the 193 UN member states voted in favor of the resolution, 14 states voted against it and 45 states abstained. Israel criticized the text.
The text, prepared by Jordan on behalf of the Group of 22 Arab countries, “calls for an immediate, permanent and sustainable humanitarian ceasefire that leads to the cessation of hostilities”. The previous version called for an “immediate ceasefire”.
The UN General Assembly resolution focuses on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. Among other things, it calls for the “immediate” supply of water, food, fuel and electricity “in sufficient quantities”, as well as “unhindered” access to humanitarian aid. It also condemns “all acts of violence against Palestinian and Israeli civilians, including all acts of terrorism and indiscriminate attacks”.
Hamas is not mentioned by name – Israel sees “dark day”
The text also expresses “concern about the recent escalation of violence since the October 7 attack” – but without mentioning Hamas by name.
Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, denounced this shortage with harsh words. “The only place this resolution belongs is in the dustbin of history,” Erdan said after the vote. Israel will continue to use “all means” in the fight against Hamas.
“This is a dark day for the UN and for humanity,” Erdan said. The day “will go down in history as a disgrace”. The UN has demonstrated that it no longer has the slightest legitimacy or relevance.