The Palestinian delegation has gained the right to display its flag at the World Health Organization following a symbolic victory in today’s vote. The delegation’s envoy expressed hope that this milestone will foster greater recognition within the United Nations and beyond.
This proposal, introduced by China, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and other nations, was voted on during the organization’s annual assembly in Geneva, achieving 95 votes in favor, 4 against (Israel, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Germany), with 27 abstentions.
This comes on the heels of a successful request from Palestine for membership in the UN General Assembly last year and follows indications from France regarding potential recognition of a Palestinian state.
In relation to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, Rana el-Huri, the representative from Lebanon, stated that the vote result offers a “small ray of hope for the brave Palestinian people, whose suffering has reached intolerable levels.”
Israel opposed the WHO resolution and requested a vote. The United States, its main ally, which plans to withdraw from the WHO, did not participate.
While nearly 150 countries have recognized a Palestinian state, many significant Western nations and other powers, including the US, UK, France, Germany, and Japan, have not.
France and Japan supported the proposal, while the UK chose to abstain.
“This is a symbolic and limited action, but it signifies our inclusion in the international community working to address health needs,” said Ibraim Hraisi, the Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, in a statement to Reuters. “I hope we will soon achieve full membership status within the WHO and all UN forums,” he added.
Ask Me Anything
Explore Related Questions
