Saudi Arabia has recently welcomed the UN General Assembly resolution that demands Israel to end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed Saudi Arabia’s support for the adoption of this resolution during an emergency special session of the UN General Assembly. The Kingdom emphasized the importance of taking practical and credible steps towards finding a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian cause, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and international legitimacy resolutions. This solution should guarantee the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The UN General Assembly’s resolution received overwhelming support, with 124 nations voting in favor, 14 against, and 43 abstaining. The resolution calls for Israel to comply with international law by withdrawing its military forces from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, ceasing all new settlement activities, evacuating settlers from occupied land, and dismantling parts of the separation wall in the West Bank. Additionally, the resolution demands that Israel return land, immovable property, assets seized since the occupation began in 1967, as well as cultural property and assets taken from Palestinians and Palestinian institutions. It also calls for the return of displaced Palestinians to their place of origin and for Israel to make reparations for the damage caused by its occupation.
The resolution is based on an advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice in July, which declared Israel’s continued presence in the Territory as unlawful. The Court also stated that all States have an obligation not to recognize the decades-long occupation. This resolution emphasizes the need for Israel to adhere to international law and end its occupation of the Palestinian Territories. Saudi Arabia’s support for this resolution demonstrates its commitment to the Palestinian cause and its efforts to advocate for a just and comprehensive solution in accordance with international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative.
The adoption of the UN General Assembly resolution is a significant step towards addressing the ongoing conflict in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. By demanding Israel’s compliance with international law and the dismantling of its unlawful presence, the resolution highlights the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian cause. Saudi Arabia’s welcoming of this resolution underscores its support for the Palestinian people and its commitment to upholding their rights to self-determination and statehood. The resolution’s call for the return of displaced Palestinians and reparations for damages caused by the occupation further emphasizes the importance of addressing the humanitarian and legal implications of the conflict.
Moving forward, it is crucial for all parties involved to work towards implementing the UN General Assembly resolution and taking concrete steps towards achieving a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian cause. This includes ending the occupation, facilitating the return of displaced Palestinians, and ensuring the recognition of their legitimate rights. With continued international support and advocacy, there is hope for a peaceful resolution that upholds justice and respects the rights of the Palestinian people. The adoption of this resolution marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to address the conflict and achieve a peaceful resolution in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
