UN General Assembly Passes Resolutions to Support UNRWA and Enforce Ceasefire in Gaza

QALQILYA: The United Nations General Assembly has voted in favor of two key resolutions aimed at supporting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and enforcing a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The resolutions were adopted by a significant majority during a session held on Wednesday evening. According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the resolution titled "Supporting the mandate of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East" garnered the support of 159 member states, with nine countries opposing and 11 abstaining. Meanwhile, the resolution "Demanding a ceasefire in Gaza" was backed by 158 countries, faced nine objections, and saw 13 abstentions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates expressed gratitude towards the nations that endorsed and voted in favor of the resolutions, emphasizing the international community's ongoing commitment to the United Nations Charter and principles of justice, hum an rights, and international law. The Ministry highlighted the renewed support for UNRWA as a vital acknowledgment of its crucial role in delivering essential services to Palestinian refugees and safeguarding their rights, which also contributes to regional stability. The Ministry further reiterated that UNRWA is indispensable to humanitarian operations in Gaza, asserting that no other organization can match its capacity or mandate in serving Palestinian refugees pending their return to their homes as outlined in General Assembly Resolution 194. Regarding the resolution advocating for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, the Ministry described the decision as reflective of the international community's desire to halt the humanitarian crisis and alleged genocide resulting from ongoing Israeli military actions and the blockade. The resolution also emphasized the importance of implementing Security Council Resolution No. (2735) of 2024, urging the UN Secretary-General to establish accountability m echanisms and support the resolution's enforcement. The Ministry called upon all UN member states to ensure these resolutions are executed, including facilitating unhindered humanitarian aid access to Gaza, protecting civilians, and holding accountable those responsible for violations of international law.