UN General Assembly demands Israel lift Gaza aid restrictions

The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution demanding that Israel facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access into the Gaza Strip and uphold the inviolability of UN facilities. The measure, which passed with 139 votes in favor, draws directly on a recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) outlining Israel's legal obligations as an occupying power and UN member state.

A response to ICJ findings and escalating crisis

Introduced by Norway and over a dozen co-sponsors, the resolution responds to what proponents describe as a deteriorating humanitarian situation. Norway's Ambassador, Merete Fjeld Brattested, warned that "civilians are paying the highest price" and fundamental humanitarian law is under severe pressure. She cited recent incidents, including Israel's "unauthorized entry" into a UNRWA compound, as violations underscoring the urgency of the ICJ's legal clarifications.

Strong international support amid US opposition

The resolution garnered widespread international support, with only 12 nations voting against and 19 abstaining. The United States led the opposition, with US envoy Jeff Bartos dismissing the text as a "performative" measure that unfairly targets Israel and impedes peace efforts. He argued it disregarded recent diplomatic developments, including a UN Security Council resolution and President Trump's peace agreement.

Core demands of the non-binding resolution

While General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, they carry significant political weight. The adopted text explicitly calls on Israel to comply with its obligations under international law, lift all restrictions hindering aid delivery, and respect the protected status of UN premises and personnel. The vote highlights the deep international divide over Israel's conduct in Gaza and the mechanisms for enforcing international humanitarian law.