The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a draft resolution supporting the establishment of an independent State of Palestine, with 142 votes in favor, 10 against, and 12 abstentions.

Why it matters:

The resolution reflects growing international consensus on Palestinian statehood amid Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza, where heavy civilian casualties and humanitarian crises have drawn global condemnation.

The big picture:

The decision comes as Israel continues its genocidal campaign in Gaza, targeting civilian infrastructure while maintaining a crippling blockade that has resulted in famine. Calls for Palestinian sovereignty have gained momentum across the Global South and among non-aligned countries, challenging Western powers aligned with Israel.

Key points:

  • 142 countries voted in favor of Palestinian statehood.
  • 10 opposed the draft resolution.
  • 12 abstained, avoiding alignment with either side.
  • The resolution condemns Israel’s attacks on civilians in Gaza, strikes on civilian infrastructure, and the use of starvation and blockade as tools of war.

Go deeper

While General Assembly resolutions are non-binding, they carry significant political weight, shaping international opinion and putting diplomatic pressure on Israel and its allies. The overwhelming support underscores the widening international isolation of the Israeli regime as global calls intensify for recognition of Palestinian statehood and an end to the Gaza war.

Hossein Vaez - Mojtaba Darabi