Arab countries welcome UN resolution on Israel’s occupation
UN General Assembly's 79th session kicks off with priority on resolution of conflicts, New York, September 11, 2024 (AA Photo)
Arab nations and organizations have welcomed the approval of a U.N. General Assembly resolution, submitted by Palestine for the first time, calling on Israel to end its presence in the occupied territories within 12 months.
According to the official Palestinian news agency WAFA, President Mahmoud Abbas expressed satisfaction with the U.N. resolution, stating that it provided “hope to the Palestinian people.”
He emphasized that the approval of the resolution, supported by two-thirds of U.N. member states, reflected global consensus on justice for the Palestinian cause and affirmed their right to self-determination and statehood.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry described the resolution’s widespread support as a “referendum” indicating international momentum and agreement on ending Israel’s occupation and halting its actions in the region.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry called the approval “historic” and stressed the need for practical and reliable steps toward a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue. The UAE also welcomed the decision, urging the U.N. General Assembly to translate this into concrete actions, while highlighting the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) stance that Israel’s occupation is illegal.
Jordan’s Foreign Ministry echoed these sentiments, underlining international law’s backing of the Palestinians’ right to establish an independent state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) lauded the resolution, stating that it showcased global unity on Palestinian rights and called for nations to hold Israel accountable under international law.
The resolution passed with 124 votes in favor and 14 against, demanding Israel end its presence in the occupied territories and cease all settlement activities, in line with ICJ rulings. The resolution also urges countries to enforce international law, refrain from assisting Israel, and impose necessary sanctions.
