World Leaders Condemn Israel’s Actions in Gaza and Recognize Palestine at the UN:

As world leaders gathered in New York for the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the crisis in Gaza and the broader Palestinian struggle took center stage. From powerful speeches to urgent Security Council meetings and street protests outside the UN complex, the call was clear: end the violence, end the occupation, and recognize Palestine. Countries across the world — including France, Malaysia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — condemned the ongoing Israeli assault on Gaza and demanded the recognition of a Palestinian state. Yet, while diplomatic voices grew louder, Israel continued its military operations, killing at least 661 Palestinians in Gaza during the same week. Despite growing support for Palestinian statehood — with countries like Australia, France, and the United Kingdom joining the movement — many human rights advocates argue that symbolic recognition is not enough. The situation on the ground remains dire, with no signs of Israeli aggression slowing down. “The situation keeps getting worse,” said Varsha Gandikota-Nellutla, executive secretary of the Hague Group — a coalition of nations advocating for sanctions and arms embargoes on Israel. “Israel still has access to weapons and resources. The economic might of the genocidal machine is still not weakened.” Protesters outside the UNGA echoed that frustration. Maamoun Hussein, one of the demonstrators, acknowledged the importance of state recognition for Palestine but insisted it must be accompanied by real consequences for Israel. “It’s a testament to the perseverance of the Palestinian people,” he said. “But these countries can do more. They can stop selling weapons. They can impose sanctions.” While Gaza suffers, Israel has expanded military actions beyond its borders, reportedly striking targets in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iran, and even a humanitarian aid boat in a Tunisian port. Meanwhile, annexation efforts in the occupied West Bank continue unabated. At a UNSC meeting, Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf described Israel’s actions in Gaza as a “war of annihilation,” citing a recent UN report accusing Israel of genocide. He warned that international stability is at stake if Israel isn’t held accountable. Another event focused on protecting Palestinian children — more than 20,000 of whom have been killed since October 2023. “This suffering is not inevitable,” said Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot. “It is the result of choices — and choices can change.” UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, also called for real change. Its head, Philippe Lazzarini, told Al Jazeera that despite diplomatic support, little has changed on the ground. “There’s been a lot of outrage,” he said, “but not enough influence to stop the violence.” On Friday, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — who is wanted by the International Criminal Court — spoke at the UN, over 50 countries walked out in protest. Meanwhile, 34 nations from the Hague Group met to discuss direct measures, including energy embargoes and halting weapons shipments to Israel. Gandikota-Nellutla stressed the importance of global collective action. “We want to grow country by country,” she said, “until no weapon of death can reach Israel — until impunity ends, and justice begins.

NEWS