The Historic Vote at the UN General Assembly
US Decision on Jerusalem
On December 6, 2017, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would formally recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a decision that sparked widespread controversy and protests in the Middle East and beyond. This move also suggested a significant shift in US foreign policy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Response from the Global Community
In response to the US decision, the United Nations General Assembly convened for an emergency session on December 21, 2017. During this session, member states gathered to debate and vote on a resolution that called upon all countries to refrain from establishing diplomatic missions in Jerusalem due to its disputed status. The resolution underscored the city's significance to both Israel and the Palestinian territories.
The Outcome: A Vote to Denounce
The Results of the Vote
In a remarkable display of international opposition, the UN General Assembly voted 128 to 9 in favor of a resolution condemning the US's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Notably, 35 countries abstained from voting, demonstrating a divided stance within the international community about the delicate matter.
Implications of the Vote
This decisive vote not only highlighted the widespread disapproval of the US action but also reaffirmed the UN's long-standing position regarding the status of Jerusalem. The outcome reinforced that many nations still view the final status of Jerusalem as one that should be determined through negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.
Fun Fact
The Diplomatic Tug-of-War
In the lead-up to the vote, several nations, particularly those supporting Israel, exerted diplomatic pressure on other member states, urging them to vote against the resolution. Despite this, the overwhelming majority chose to support the resolution, reflecting global dissent against the unilateral US decision.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on the Jerusalem Conflict
For those interested in delving deeper into the complexities surrounding Jerusalem's status, consider reading The Question of Palestine by Edward Said and Jerusalem: The Biography by Simon Sebag Montefiore.
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