New York ( The COW News Digital)The United Nations General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a resolution backing the revival of a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, signaling renewed international pressure to end the war in Gaza. The resolution, based on the Saudi-French New York Declaration, calls for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state — but explicitly excludes Hamas from the process.
According to international news agencies, 142 member states voted in favor of the resolution, while 10 countries, including the United States and Israel, opposed it. Twelve countries abstained from the vote. The resolution marks the first time the General Assembly has directly condemned Hamas for its October 7, 2023 attacks on Israeli civilians.
The text of the resolution calls on Hamas to lay down its arms, release all hostages, and relinquish its control over Gaza, transferring authority to the Palestinian Authority. It also stresses the need for a permanent ceasefire and the resumption of negotiations aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace based on the two-state framework.
The resolution has already been endorsed by the Arab League, where 17 member nations signed the declaration earlier this year. Supporters argue that removing Hamas from power is a crucial step toward securing international backing and financial support for rebuilding Gaza and establishing a sovereign Palestinian state.
The move is being seen as a major diplomatic victory for Saudi Arabia and France, who co-sponsored the initiative. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would formally recognize Palestine as a state during the upcoming high-level summit in New York, scheduled for September 22.
The resolution’s passage increases pressure on Israel, which has faced growing criticism over its military campaign in Gaza. Global leaders are urging Israel to halt military operations and engage in serious peace negotiations. Several countries have hinted that they may follow France’s lead in recognizing Palestinian statehood if progress is not made soon.
Diplomats say the resolution sends a clear message that the international community wants to move toward a peaceful settlement and prevent further escalation in the Middle East. However, observers note that without U.S. and Israeli support, the practical implementation of the plan will face significant challenges.
