The United Nations recently passed a resolution with a strong majority, throwing its support behind Palestine’s aspiration for full membership. The UN resolution also calls on the Security Council to give “favourable consideration” to Palestine’s application.
International Support and Opposition
The UN resolution received overwhelming support, with 143 countries voting in favor, including India. However, 25 countries abstained from voting, while nine nations, including Israel and the United States, opposed it. Other opposing countries included Czechia, Hungary, Argentina, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, and Papua New Guinea.
Implications of the Resolution
Proposed by the United Arab Emirates, the resolution grants new privileges to the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state. It specifically urges the UN Security Council to reconsider Palestine’s membership bid positively.
India’s Stance on the Israel-Palestine Conflict
India has consistently advocated for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. While condemning terrorist attacks, including those perpetrated by Hamas, India Backs UN Resolution support for a homeland for Palestinians. In a statement to Parliament in February, the Ministry of External Affairs emphasized India’s commitment to a negotiated settlement that establishes a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine alongside Israel.
India Backs UN Resolution for Palestine
India has a long history of supporting the Palestinian cause. It was the first non-Arab state to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people in 1974. Additionally, India was among the first countries to recognize the State of Palestine in 1988. In 1996, India opened its Representative Office to the Palestinian Authority in Gaza, later relocating it to Ramallah in 2003.
India’s Hope for Palestine’s UN Membership
India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, expressed hope for Palestine’s eventual UN membership. While acknowledging the Security Council’s previous veto on Palestine’s application, India remains optimistic that Palestine’s endeavor will be reconsidered and endorsed in due course.
Rights and Privileges for Palestine
The resolution outlines additional rights and privileges for the State of Palestine, effective from the 79th session of the General Assembly beginning in September. These privileges include seating among member states, the right to make statements on behalf of a group, eligibility for officer positions in the General Assembly, and full participation in UN conferences and international meetings.
Current Status of Palestine at the UN
Currently, Palestine holds the status of a non-member observer state at the UN, granted in 2012. This status allows Palestine to participate in UN proceedings but does not grant voting rights. The only other non-member observer state at the UN is the Holy See, representing the Vatican.
