UNGA Backs Resolution on Israeli Withdrawal from Occupied Territory, Palestinian Rights

UNGA Backs Resolution on Israeli Withdrawal from Occupied Territory, Palestinian RightsNew York, 3 Dec 2025 (ONA) — The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution calling for Israel’s withdrawal from the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, and reaffirming the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them their right to self-determination, the establishment of their independent state, and the achievement of a just solution to the Palestinian refugee issue in accordance with Resolution 194 of 11 December 1948. The resolution was adopted with 151 votes in favor, 11 against, and 11 abstentions, during the General Assembly’s 80th session under agenda item 35. The resolution reaffirmed the permanent responsibility of the United Nations toward the question of Palestine until it is resolved in all its aspects in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions. It underscored that achieving a just, lasting and comprehensive settlement, as the core of the Arab-Israeli conflict, is essential for peace and stability in the Middle East. It also emphasized that the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples constitutes a cornerstone of the UN Charter. The General Assembly further reaffirmed the inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by force, stressing the need to respect the unity and territorial integrity of the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. It stated that Israel, as the occupying power, is obligated not to obstruct the Palestinian people from exercising their right to self-determination, including the establishment of their independent and sovereign state on all occupied Palestinian territory. It also stressed that all states must ensure, in accordance with international law, the removal of obstacles arising from Israel’s illegal presence that hinder the exercise of this right. The resolution also stressed the illegality of Israeli settlement activities and all unilateral measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character, and status of Jerusalem and the occupied Palestinian territory as a whole, including the wall and its associated regime, demanding their immediate cessation. It condemned the use of force against Palestinian civilians, particularly children, in violation of international law, and emphasized the necessity of ensuring the safety, protection, and well-being of all civilians across the Middle East, as well as rejecting all acts of violence and terrorism against civilians on all sides. The resolution reiterated the urgent need to end the Israeli occupation that began in 1967, and affirmed the right of all states in the region to live in peace within secure and internationally recognized borders. It renewed calls for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on relevant UN resolutions, including Security Council Resolution 2334 (2016), the Madrid terms of reference, the land-for-peace principle, and the Arab Peace Initiative, while reaffirming unwavering support for a two-state solution based on the pre-1967 borders, with Palestine and Israel living side by side in peace and security.— Ends/Khalid