UN Assembly Demands Israel Permit Gaza Aid Entry
The United Nations General Assembly has decisively endorsed a resolution urging Israel to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. This resolution demands that Israel cease attacks on UN facilities and adhere to international law as an occupying power.
Background and Context
This resolution emerged in the wake of an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in October. The ICJ’s findings highlight Israel’s obligations under the UN Charter and humanitarian law.
Resolution Details
- The resolution received overwhelming support, with 139 countries voting in favor.
- Only 12 member states, including Israel and the United States, opposed the resolution.
- Nineteen countries chose to abstain from the vote.
The resolution was tabled by Norway, alongside more than a dozen other nations. Norway’s Permanent Representative, Merete Fjeld Brattested, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that 2024 had been one of the most violent years in three decades. She pointed out that the ongoing humanitarian crisis was particularly grave.
Statements of Concern
Brattested remarked that civilians are bearing the brunt of the violence. “Respect for humanitarian principles is eroding,” she stated, underscoring the pressing need for adherence to humanitarian law. She noted recent attacks that highlighted the importance of the ICJ’s findings, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s condemnation of Israel’s unauthorized entry into a UN facility.
International Reactions
The United States envoy, Jeff Bartos, rejected the resolution, asserting that it unfairly targets Israel. He claimed that it disregards strides made toward peace in the region. Conversely, Philippe Lazzarini, the UNRWA commissioner-general, welcomed the resolution as a strong endorsement of the ICJ’s findings regarding allegations of infiltration by Hamas.
Support from the Palestinian Leadership
Palestinian National Council Speaker, Rouhi Fattouh, also commended the vote. He highlighted the broad international support for UNRWA, emphasizing the agency’s crucial role in protecting Palestinian refugees. He warned of an escalating situation in the occupied territories, citing increased occupation crimes and worsening humanitarian conditions.
Conclusion
The demand for unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza reflects a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict. The resolution aims to ensure that humanitarian principles are upheld amid a deteriorating situation on the ground.
