Palestinians Call for UN Resolution to End Israel's Presence in Gaza and West Bank
Palestinians Demand Israel Withdraw from Gaza and West Bank
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The Palestinians have circulated a draft U.N. resolution demanding that Israel end its unlawful presence in Gaza and the West Bank within six months. The proposed General Assembly resolution follows a ruling by the top United Nations court in July that said Israel's presence in the Palestinian territories is unlawful and must end.
International Court of Justice Ruling
The International Court of Justice condemned Israel's rule over the lands it captured 57 years ago, asserting that Israel had no right to sovereignty over the territories and was violating international laws against acquiring lands by force. It also emphasized that Israeli settlement building must cease.
Opposition from Israeli Officials
Israeli Ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, denounced the resolution, describing it as a reward for terrorism. He called for it to be rejected, declaring, “Nothing will stop Israel or deter it from its mission to bring home the hostages and eliminate Hamas.”
U.N. Secretary-General's Remarks
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stated that rulings from the International Court of Justice “should be accepted and implemented.” As for the General Assembly resolution, he noted that the decision lies with the 193 U.N. member nations.
Context of the Resolution Proposal
This draft proposal comes as Israel's military assault on Gaza marks its 11th month, following the Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel on October 7, heightening violence in the West Bank. If adopted, the resolution would not be legally binding, but it would reflect global opinion.
Key Demands of the Resolution
- Immediate withdrawal of all military forces from Palestinian territories.
- End to all new settlement activity.
- Evacuation of all settlers.
- Dismantling of the separation barrier constructed by Israel in the West Bank.
- Right for displaced Palestinians to return to their original residences.
- Reparations for damage caused during Israel's occupation.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.