The World Says Enough: UN Calls for Ceasefire and Justice in Gaza

 On June 12, 2025, the UN General Assembly held an emergency session and passed a resolution with 149 countries in favour, 12 against (including the US and Israel), and 19 abstaining. The resolution:

• Demands an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza
• Calls for the release of all hostages
• Urges humanitarian aid to prevent famine

New Zealand’s UN Ambassador said the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is intolerable, and the world’s patience has run out.

The UN General Assembly President criticized the UN Security Council, especially the US veto, for failing to stop the violence.

Although General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, they can support action under international law. For example, such resolutions helped end apartheid in South Africa. The same could happen with Israel, including possible suspension from the UN.

Next week, the UN will host a high-level conference on a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, co-led by France and Saudi Arabia.

The General Assembly may soon adopt a "Uniting for Peace" resolution, allowing it to act when the Security Council is blocked. This resolution dates back to 1950 and lets the General Assembly recommend collective action, even force if needed, to restore peace.

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Key Points of the June 12 Resolution:

• Ceasefire: Immediate and permanent by all sides
• Hostages: All hostages must be released unconditionally
• Implementation: All parts of UN Security Council Resolution 2735 (2024) must be carried out – including troop withdrawal and return of displaced people
• International Law: All sides must follow humanitarian and human rights laws
• Starvation: Using hunger or blocking aid is condemned
• Aid Access: Full, safe delivery of food, medicine, water, fuel, and shelter must be allowed throughout Gaza
• Detentions: Arbitrary detainees should be released; remains returned
• ICJ Opinion: Refers to an ongoing legal review of Israel's actions in occupied territories
• End Blockade: Israel must lift the Gaza blockade and open borders for aid
• Accountability: Countries should take steps to ensure Israel follows international law
• UN and Aid Workers: Their safety, immunity, and access must be protected
• Medical Protection: Health workers, facilities, and routes must be safeguarded