NEW YORK (TheCOWNews Digital) In a major diplomatic development, the United Nations General Assembly has overwhelmingly passed a resolution calling for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, along with unrestricted humanitarian access to the war-torn enclave. The resolution, backed by 149 countries including Pakistan, reflects a growing global consensus demanding an end to the months-long conflict.
The non-binding resolution also condemns the use of starvation as a method of warfare and criticizes the obstruction of humanitarian aid, asserting that denying civilians access to essential supplies is unacceptable under international law. The resolution includes demands for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas, the return of Palestinian detainees from Israeli prisons, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Despite broad support, 11 countries—including the United States and Israel—voted against the resolution. Nineteen member states abstained. The U.S. opposition follows its recent veto of a similar draft in the UN Security Council, citing concerns that such a resolution could disrupt ongoing ceasefire negotiations being led by Washington.
While General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, they carry significant moral and political weight. This latest vote is seen as a powerful expression of global public opinion amid escalating civilian casualties and worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Speaking ahead of the vote, Libya’s ambassador to the UN, Taher El-Sonni, warned that those opposing the resolution would have “blood on their hands,” drawing attention to the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding on the ground.
Pakistan, a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, strongly backed the resolution. In a statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause and emphasized that the resolution is not merely symbolic—it represents the collective legal and moral responsibility of the international community.
“This is not just a call for peace. It is a call for justice, dignity, and the recognition of inalienable rights,” the Foreign Office said. “Pakistan will continue to stand by the people of Palestine until a sovereign, independent and united Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital is established based on pre-1967 borders.”
Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, denounced the resolution as “a bloody lie,” accusing it of ignoring the realities of terrorism. He argued that failing to condition a ceasefire on the release of hostages sends a dangerous message to terrorist organizations worldwide that kidnapping civilians is an effective tactic.
While the Israeli position found limited support, the broad international endorsement of the resolution increases pressure on Israel and its allies to reconsider their stance. Observers believe the vote could act as a catalyst for renewed diplomatic efforts toward a negotiated peace settlement.
The conflict in Gaza has drawn sharp criticism globally, with increasing calls for an end to hostilities. The UN resolution is expected to be followed by appeals from international humanitarian agencies and world leaders urging de-escalation and the protection of civilian lives.
