U.N. General Assembly Poised for Crucial Vote on Palestinian Resolution

The U.N. General Assembly is set to vote on a Palestinian draft resolution urging Israel to terminate its occupation of Palestinian territories within six months. The resolution, backed by the Arab Group, OIC, and the Non-Aligned Movement, follows an ICJ advisory opinion declaring the occupation unlawful.

The United Nations General Assembly is gearing up to vote next week on a Palestinian draft resolution that demands Israel end its 'unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory' within six months. The resolution, crafted by the Palestinian Authority and supported by the Arab Group, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Non-Aligned Movement, seeks to capitalize on a July advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice. The ICJ opinion deemed Israel's occupation and settlements illegal, encouraging their rapid withdrawal. However, the draft resolution stipulates a specific six-month deadline.

The 193-member General Assembly's vote, scheduled for Sept. 18, could see language changes before it is finalized. The key timing coincides with the arrival of world leaders in New York for the annual UN gathering. Israel's U.N. Ambassador, Danny Danon, urged the Assembly to reject the resolution, which he described as 'disgraceful,' advocating instead for a resolution condemning Hamas and demanding the release of hostages taken during recent conflicts.

Although ICJ advisory opinions and General Assembly resolutions are not binding, they carry significant political and international legal weight. The backdrop to this vote is Israel's actions since the 1967 Middle East war, including the capture and settlement of Palestinian territories and the ongoing conflict initiated by Hamas in October 2023. The extensive military actions have caused severe humanitarian crises, affecting millions of Palestinians, prompting calls for immediate humanitarian ceasefires.

(With inputs from agencies.)