UN Assembly Votes 158-9 for Immediate, Unconditional Gaza Ceasefire; Backs UNRWA Despite Israeli Ban

Dec 12, 2024, 01:16 AM

The United Nations General Assembly has overwhelmingly adopted two resolutions concerning the situation in Gaza. The first resolution demands an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. The ceasefire resolution saw 158 nations in favor, 9 against, and 13 abstentions in the 193-member assembly, with the United States and Israel among those voting against. The second resolution reaffirms support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and urges Israel to fulfill its international obligations. Israel has moved to ban UNRWA's activities. Both resolutions are non-binding but reflect widespread international sentiment, despite being rejected by the United States and Israel.