News- Middle East: The United Nations General Assembly has passed a draft resolution demanding Israel withdraw from Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, including East al-Quds, and recognize the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and establishment of an independent state.

The resolution was supported by 151 countries, while 11 abstained and 11 voted against.

The resolution, presented by Palestine, Jordan, Djibouti, Senegal, Qatar, and Mauritania, was voted on during the 80th session of the General Assembly under agenda item 35.

It emphasized that the United Nations holds a permanent responsibility regarding the issue of Palestine until it is fully addressed in accordance with international law and relevant resolutions.

The resolution also highlighted that resolving the question of Palestine — central to the Arab-Israeli conflict — through a just, lasting, and comprehensive settlement is crucial for ensuring enduring peace and stability across the West Asia region.

The principle of equal rights for all peoples and their right to self-determination was highlighted as a fundamental purpose and principle enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

The resolution reaffirmed the principle that acquisition of territory through force is unacceptable, highlighting the importance of upholding the unity and territorial integrity of all occupied Palestinian territories, including East al-Quds.

It also said Israel, as the occupying authority, holds the responsibility to refrain from obstructing the Palestinian people’s pursuit of their right to self-determination.

This includes their right to establish an independent and sovereign state across the entirety of the occupied Palestinian territory, coexisting peacefully and securely alongside Israel within recognized and secure borders.

The resolution underscored the responsibility of all states to act in line with the UN Charter and international law, ensuring the removal of any barriers stemming from Israel’s unlawful presence in the occupied Palestinian territory that hinder the Palestinian people from realizing their right to self-determination.

It reaffirmed that Israeli settlement activities, along with all other unilateral actions intended to change the demographic makeup, character, and status of al-Quds and the occupied Palestinian territories, including the construction of the wall and its related measures, are illegal, calling for their immediate halt.

The resolution strongly denounced any use of force against Palestinian civilians, especially children, as a breach of international law, while emphasizing the need to ensure the safety, protection, and well-being of all civilians across West Asia. It also condemned acts of violence and terrorism targeting civilians from all parties involved.

It underscored the importance of fully upholding international law, prioritizing the protection of civilian lives. It also urged measures to de-escalate the tense situation by avoiding provocative actions and statements, while fostering a stable and secure environment.

The resolution highlighted the commendable efforts of the Palestinian Authority, supported internationally, in building, enhancing, and sustaining its institutions and infrastructure despite the challenges presented by the ongoing Israeli occupation.

It also placed a premium on the continued development of institutions for an independent Palestinian state, while stressing the need to promote Palestinian reconciliation.

Source: Press TV