In a pivotal moment at the United Nations General Assembly, Sierra Leone joined 119 other nations in supporting a resolution aimed at addressing the escalating Gaza crisis.
The resolution, proposed by Jordan, received an overwhelming 120 votes in favor. However, 14 countries, including Israel and the United States, voted against it, while 45 nations, including the UK, Ukraine, Tunisia, Germany, Australia, and Ethiopia, chose to abstain.
The backdrop for this critical vote was Israel’s expanding ground operations and the disruption of communication and internet services in Gaza.
The key points of the resolution are clear: an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all civilians, the protection of civilians and international institutions, and ensuring the safe passage of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.
While this resolution is symbolic, it underscores the broad international support for the Palestinian population during Israel’s military campaign following the October 7 Hamas offensive.
Notably, Canada sought to amend the resolution to include a condemnation of Hamas. Although a majority of members supported this proposal, it fell short of the two-thirds majority required for adoption.
Israel has strongly reacted to the UN resolution, calling it “infamy” and asserting that the vote reflects a preference of the majority of the international community to support the “defense of Nazi terrorists” rather than Israel.
Here’s a breakdown of how each country voted in the UNGA in New York City on Friday:
- 120 countries voted in favor of the resolution.
- 14 countries, including Israel and the United States, voted against it.
- 45 countries, including the UK, Ukraine, Tunisia, Germany, Australia, and Ethiopia, abstained from voting.
This vote in the UN General Assembly highlights the international community’s concern and efforts to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
