File Photo: UN General Assembly. AFP
Following the United States' veto of a similar push in the Security Council last week, the General Assembly adopted the non-binding resolution by a vote of 149-12, with 19 abstentions.
The text demands "an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in Gaza, as well as "the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages" seized during the unprecedented Hamas operation on 7 October 2023.
However it goes further than the US-vetoed text, taking direct aim at Israel over its impeding aid deliveries into the Gaza Strip.
It "demands that Israel, the occupying Power, immediately end the blockade... and ensure that aid reaches the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip," which after more than 20 months of war is facing a catastrophic humanitarian situation.
It also calls on all UN members to "individually and collectively take all measures necessary, in line with international law... to ensure compliance by Israel with its obligations."
Israel's envoy Danny Danon slammed the resolution in remarks to the press ahead of the vote, saying it is "a farce, is a moral failure, is a political stunt."
Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour meanwhile called on all nations to turn their votes "into resolute action."
"No arms, no money, no trade to oppress Palestinians," he urged.
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