In a significant development, Nigeria and 119 other nations voted in favour of a humanitarian ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
This decision followed the failure of four draft resolutions addressing the issue at the UN Security Council.
At the UN General Assembly session, a majority of 120 countries voted in favour of the resolution, which aimed to protect civilians and uphold international humanitarian and human rights laws.
In contrast, 14 countries, including the United States and Israel, voted against it, and 45 countries abstained from voting.
The resolution specifically called for all parties involved to immediately and fully adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights laws, especially concerning the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
This is a significant concern, as both Israelis and Palestinians have suffered casualties due to relentless bombardments.
The recent escalation of the conflict began on October 7th, when Hamas initiated an attack on Israel, resulting in over 1,400 Israeli casualties.
In response, Israel declared war on Hamas, leading to severe consequences for the Gaza Strip.
Tragically, over 7,000 Gaza residents, including approximately 3,000 children, have lost their lives in the ongoing airstrikes.
Additionally, the resolution emphasised the need to safeguard humanitarian personnel and facilities, ensuring that essential supplies and services reach civilians in Gaza.
Since the recent escalation, more than 53 humanitarian workers have lost their lives in Gaza, according to the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA).
Furthermore, the UN General Assembly called on Israel, referred to as the “occupying power,” to rescind its evacuation order for Palestinians in northern Gaza.
The evacuation order had been issued, but bombardments in the area persisted.
The General Assembly also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all civilians held captive, urging their safety and humane treatment in accordance with international law.
This important resolution reaffirms that a peaceful and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict should be achieved through diplomatic means, respecting relevant UN resolutions, international law, and the principles of a two-state solution.
This vote sends a strong message to the international community about the urgent need for a ceasefire and the protection of civilian lives in the midst of this conflict.
Source: Premium Times