In a significant display of international solidarity, India and 152 other member nations joined forces at the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday, voting overwhelmingly to call for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. This move, aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas conflict, underscored a global consensus against the ongoing hostilities. The results revealed a notable isolation of the United States and Israel, with 153 in favor, 10 against, and 23 abstentions.
This show of support surpassed that of the October 27 resolution, with a vote of 120-14 and 45 abstentions, further highlighting the escalating urgency to address the crisis. Palestinian U.N. Ambassador Riyad Mansour hailed the historic day, emphasizing the collective duty to halt the aggression and save lives.
The United States, traditionally a staunch supporter of Israel, found itself increasingly isolated in its backing of Israel’s military campaign, especially following a surprise attack by Hamas militants on October 7. President Joe Biden issued a stern warning, citing concerns over Israel’s “indiscriminate bombing” of Gaza and acknowledging a decline in international support.
Amidst growing tensions, an emergency session of the General Assembly was convened after the U.S. vetoed a Security Council resolution for a humanitarian ceasefire. General Assembly resolutions, while not legally binding, serve as crucial indicators of global opinion.
The resolution adopted makes no specific reference to Hamas, and attempts to include amendments condemning the group were defeated. The resolution expresses grave concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing the need to protect civilians according to international humanitarian law. General Assembly President Dennis Francis condemned the violence, stating that the world must act swiftly to end the suffering.
U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield outlined demands on behalf of the Biden administration, urging Israel to avoid mass displacement, ensure humanitarian aid, and allow civilians to return home. However, she reiterated the U.S. commitment to Israel’s right to self-defense.
Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan argued against a ceasefire, claiming it would only prolong death and destruction, portraying it as a survival strategy for Hamas. He urged U.N. member nations seeking a ceasefire to contact Hamas directly.
The vote witnessed significant shifts, with over 25 countries changing their stance from abstention to supporting the ceasefire demand. Croatia and Fiji switched from opposing to supporting, while Hungary, the Marshall Islands, and Tonga transitioned from opposing to abstaining. The evolving dynamics reflect the pressing need for a diplomatic resolution to the prolonged conflict.
