The United Nations General Assembly is poised to vote today on a draft resolution calling for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, following the United States’ veto of a similar measure in the UN Security Council last week.

Diplomats expect strong support for the resolution among the 193-member body, despite Israel’s efforts to discourage participation, labeling the vote a “politically-motivated, counter-productive charade.” While General Assembly resolutions lack binding authority, they reflect global sentiment and have historically seen significant backing for Gaza ceasefire calls, though violence has persisted.

The resolution demands the immediate release of captives held by Palestinian Resistance groups, the return of Palestinians detained by Israel, and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. It also calls for unrestricted humanitarian aid access, condemning the use of starvation as a weapon and citing the denial of essential supplies and obstruction of relief efforts as violations of international law.

The vote precedes a UN conference next week aimed at revitalizing efforts for a “two-state solution.” The U.S. has urged nations to boycott the conference, warning that “anti-Israel actions” could strain diplomatic ties, aligning with its broader opposition to the ceasefire resolution. Last week, Washington vetoed a Security Council draft supported by all 14 other members, arguing it would hinder U.S.-led mediation efforts amid Gaza’s worsening humanitarian crisis, where over 2 million Palestinians remain under siege. (ILKHA)