The UN General Assembly approved new rights and privileges for Palestine, urging the Security Council to reconsider its bid for UN membership, which would make it the 194th member.
The resolution, sponsored by Arab and Palestinian entities, gained significant support with 143 votes in favor, 9 against, and 25 abstentions.
This move comes after the United States vetoed a council resolution in April, hindering Palestine’s path to full UN membership, a goal long pursued by Palestinians and opposed by Israel.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas hailed the resolution’s passing, affirming Palestine’s commitment to seeking full UN membership. He interpreted the vote as a global affirmation of Palestinian rights and a stance against Israeli occupation.
The vote’s significance is underscored by the unexpected level of support, with 143 countries backing Palestine’s enhanced UN rights, surpassing earlier expectations of around 120 to 140 votes.
Meanwhile, amid the diplomatic developments, the toll of casualties in Gaza continues to rise, with the Health Ministry reporting at least 34,943 Palestinians killed and 78,572 wounded in Israeli attacks since October 7.
