Emmanuel OchayiAmid escalating tensions in Gaza, the United Nations General Assembly has called for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire, marking a shift in global sentiment.
With 153 out of 193 member states backing the resolution, the Assembly erupted in cheers, signaling a growing consensus against Israel’s relentless assault.
Only 10 nations, including the US, Israel, and Austria, voted against it, with 23, including the UK and Germany, choosing to abstain. This marked a significant shift from a previous UN resolution in October, which had 120 votes in favour, 14 against, and 45 abstentions.
The resolution drew attention to the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where reports indicate that over 18,000 Palestinian lives have been lost, with a striking 70% comprising women and children.
This groundswell of support contrasts with a prior UN resolution, underlining a clear shift in international opinion on the conflict.
The vote underscored a palpable global outcry for an end to the conflict, highlighting the isolation faced by the US and its allies. President Joe Biden’s caution to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding waning international backing for the Gaza offensive hinted at a potential change in stance, adding weight to the UN’s decisive call for a ceasefire.
Echoing the sentiment of the global community, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour hailed the vote as a powerful message that the US cannot disregard.
Egypt, among the resolution’s co-sponsors, issued a stark warning, emphasizing the potential dire consequences should military actions persist in Gaza.
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Despite efforts by the US delegation to strike a delicate balance between support for Israel and concern for Palestinian civilians, the resounding support for the ceasefire exposes a diplomatic challenge for the US on the world stage.
The UN vote cements a shifting global opinion challenging the US position on the ongoing Gaza crisis.
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