UNGA votes 124-14 to end Israeli occupation, 43 nations abstain
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"Israel" rejected the resolution, with its UN ambassador calling it a "shameful decision," while the US voted against it, criticizing the resolution as "inflammatory" and unproductive for peace.
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The Security Council meets at the United Nations headquarters, on Tuesday, July 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson)
On Wednesday, UN General Assembly member states passed a non-binding resolution demanding that "Israel" end its occupation of Palestinian territories within 12 months, with sanctions for non-compliance.
The resolution, based on an International Court of Justice (ICJ) opinion declaring the occupation unlawful since 1967, saw 124 votes in favor, 14 against, and 43 abstentions. Arab countries initiated the special session just before the UN General Assembly.
The resolution calls for "Israel's" withdrawal from occupied territories, halts on new settlements, and the return of seized lands.
It also suggests that countries cease arms sales to "Israel" when there is evidence that the arms are used in occupied areas.
🎥Watch the historic moment when the General Assembly overwhelmingly voted on State of Palestine’s resolution calling on Israel to end its illegal occupation within 12 months: pic.twitter.com/ggHm1MIdcP
— State of Palestine (@Palestine_UN) September 18, 2024
"Israel" rejected the resolution, with its UN ambassador calling it a "shameful decision," adding that it "backs the Palestinian Authority's diplomatic terrorism."
The US, on the other hand, voted against the resolution, labeling it as "inflammatory" and unproductive for peace.
Read more: Israeli UN envoy says UN HQ should be ‘wiped off face of the earth’
Earlier, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the UN, urged for nations to vote against the resolution. On Thursday, the diplomat said she believes the UN has an "Israel problem" when questioned on the matter.
The US has been "Israel's" strongest ally during its ongoing genocide in Gaza, opposing unilateral measures that hinder a two-state solution or permanent ceasefire.
Although the ICJ's advisory opinion is non-binding, it holds significant influence under international law and may weaken the occupation's support. This is similar to the General Assembly's case, where the non-binding resolution carries political weight.
"The Palestinians want to live -- not survive. They want to be safe in their homes," Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour told the General Assembly on Tuesday.
"How many more Palestinians need to be killed before change finally takes place to stop this inhumanity?"
"Each country has a vote, and the world is watching us," he added. "Please stand on the right side of history. With international law. With freedom. With peace," he urged.
