The United Nations General Assembly has made a significant move to enhance Palestine’s rights within the organization by calling for it to be accepted as a member. This decision comes after Palestine has held non-member observer state status since 2012, granting them some rights but falling short of full membership.
While the US recently vetoed a bid for full membership, Friday’s vote can be seen as a gesture of support for the Palestinians. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed his gratitude for the resolution, stating that it supports their ongoing efforts to obtain full membership in the UN.
However, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, condemned the passing of the resolution, accusing the body of welcoming a “terror state” into its ranks. He even went as far as shredding a copy of the UN Charter during his address to the assembly.
In addition to the UN resolution, several European countries are reportedly planning to recognize a Palestinian state. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell revealed that Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and Malta are among those considering this step.
The issue of Palestinian statehood has long been a contentious topic in the international community. While the Palestinians have limited self-government through the Palestinian Authority in parts of the West Bank, Israel does not recognize Palestinian statehood and opposes the creation of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza.
The US supports the idea of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel but insists that it should only come through direct negotiations between the two parties. Despite the complexities surrounding the issue, the General Assembly’s decision marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over Palestinian rights and statehood.