UN General Assembly Vote on Palestinian Rights
The UN General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to grant the Palestinians additional rights in the global body and backed their drive for full membership, which is blocked by the United States.
Background
Israel’s UN ambassador Gilad Erdan reacted angrily to the largely symbolic vote, while Palestinian ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour said it was historic.
In April, amidst the ongoing war in Gaza, the Palestinians relaunched a request dating back to 2011 to become full members of the United Nations, where their current status is that of a “nonmember observer state.”
UN Vote and Reactions
To succeed, the initiative needed a UN Security Council green light and then a two-thirds majority vote in the General Assembly. However, the United States blocked it on April 18.
Palestinian ambassador Mansour expressed the significance of the vote, emphasizing the future place of Palestine among free nations. In contrast, Israeli ambassador Erdan criticized the abuse of the UN Charter.
US Stance and Resolution
The United States opposes unilateral measures for Palestinian statehood and remains committed to a bilateral accord between the Palestinians and Israel. The resolution grants the Palestinians “additional rights and privileges” starting in the next session of the General Assembly, in September.
Implications and Symbolism
The resolution, passed with a significant majority, symbolizes a call for serious consideration of Palestinian statehood. It sets new rules for Palestinian participation in UN activities, signaling a shift in diplomatic dynamics.
International Response
The Hamas militant group welcomed the passage of the UN measure, seeing it as a reaffirmation of international solidarity with the Palestinian people.