UN General Assembly Calls for Immediate, Unconditional Ceasefire in Gaza, Pakistan Supports Resolution

New York:The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution calling for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, along with ensuring humanitarian aid access to the region. The resolution, which echoes a similar call made by the Security Council, had been vetoed by the United States just last week.

In the 193-member General Assembly, the resolution was supported by 149 countries, including Pakistan, while 19 countries abstained from voting. The United States, Israel, and 10 other nations voted against the resolution.

The resolution condemns the use of hunger as a war tactic and calls for the removal of illegal obstacles to humanitarian aid. It also urges the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas, the return of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, described the resolution as a “bloody slander” and urged member states not to participate in what he called a “charade.” He argued that making hostage release conditional on a ceasefire sends the wrong message to terrorist organizations worldwide, encouraging the abduction of civilians.

Although UN General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, they reflect global public opinion. The General Assembly had previously called for ceasefires between Israel and Hamas, which were largely ignored.

Before the vote, Libya’s Ambassador to the UN, Taher al-Sunni, remarked that countries voting against the resolution would have “blood on their hands.” Last week, the United States had vetoed a similar resolution in the Security Council, arguing that it could jeopardize ongoing ceasefire negotiations led by the U.S.

Pakistan, in line with its principled stance, supported the resolution and voted in favor. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people. A spokesperson for the Ministry emphasized that the resolution is not just a wishful appeal but a recognition of the international community’s collective legal and moral responsibilities.

Pakistan remains committed to standing with the Palestinian people until their inalienable rights are recognized and a sovereign, free, and united Palestinian state is established based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.