UN Adopts Resolution Demanding Israel to End 'Unlawful Presence in Palestine'

The UN General Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favor of a nonbinding resolution on Wednesday that calls for Israel to end its “unlawful presence” in Gaza and the occupied West Bank within one year. The resolution passed with 124 votes in favor, 14 against, and 43 abstentions.

Israel's UN Ambassador, Danny Danon, criticized the decision as “shameful,” accusing the Palestinian Authority of engaging in “diplomatic terrorism.” He expressed disappointment that the resolution did not condemn Hamas, which carried out attacks on October 7, marking the beginning of the ongoing conflict.

This resolution comes as the war between Israel and Hamas approaches its first anniversary, with escalating violence in the West Bank. It demands the withdrawal of all Israeli forces and the evacuation of settlers from the occupied territories “without delay.” While not legally binding, the strong support reflects a growing consensus in international opinion against Israel's occupation.

The resolution follows a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in July, which stated that Israel's presence in the Palestinian territories is unlawful and violates international law. The ICJ emphasized that Israel lacks sovereignty over these territories, further bolstering the Palestinians’ call for an end to occupation.

Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour highlighted the necessity of a just solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

In contrast, U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield criticized the resolution for its numerous flaws, arguing that it fails to recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization and does not acknowledge Israel's right to defend itself. She warned that the resolution could complicate efforts to achieve a two-state solution and provide tangible benefits for Palestinians.

The resolution also calls for reparations to be paid to Palestinians for damages caused by the occupation and urges countries to prevent trade and investments that support Israel's presence in the territories. It demands accountability for violations of international law and suggests sanctions against those who maintain Israel's occupation.

Mansour noted that the initial draft of the resolution had called for the end of occupation within six months but was amended to accommodate concerns from various countries. He expressed skepticism that Israel would heed the resolution's demands.