The devastating situation in Gaza, where Palestinian civilians are facing severe violence and potential extermination by Israeli forces, has emerged as a critical issue during the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) high-level week. Significant developments included the recognition of the state of Palestine by countries such as France, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. Alongside this, member states made important commitments regarding human rights and accountability, which were overwhelmingly adopted by the UNGA and now require urgent implementation.
On September 29, U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled his 20-point “Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict,” a document that conspicuously omits any mention of human rights or justice for the Palestinian people. However, the international community should not postpone necessary actions pending the finalization of a peace plan. There is an urgent need for immediate measures to be taken, leveraging the obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, to halt Israel’s escalating violence against Palestinians in both the West Bank and Gaza.
Governments worldwide must take decisive steps, including suspending arms transfers to Israel and halting preferential trade agreements that enable this ongoing oppression. Additionally, there should be a ban on trade with illegal Israeli settlements and the imposition of targeted sanctions against Israeli officials who are complicit in violations against Palestinian civilians.
Accountability for Israeli authorities committing war crimes and crimes against humanity—including extermination, apartheid, and persecution—must be a priority for all governments. This includes pursuing justice for acts of genocide and other crimes perpetrated against the Palestinian population. Furthermore, there must be a concerted effort to address the crimes committed by Palestinian armed groups, including acts of murder and unlawful imprisonment against Israelis during the recent attacks on October 7, 2023, as well as the issue of hostages taken during these incidents.
The international community should rally behind the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its efforts to combat impunity for atrocity crimes around the globe. It is also crucial to condemn and counter the U.S. sanctions imposed on ICC judges and officials, as well as on prominent Palestinian rights organizations and a UN expert.
The recent UNGA resolution was passed in anticipation of a high-level conference marking the expiration of a deadline set for September 2025. This deadline is tied to a landmark advisory opinion issued in July 2024 by the International Court of Justice concerning the legal ramifications of Israel’s actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
This year’s vote must not serve as a mere symbolic gesture while Israeli authorities continue to expand illegal settlements, further displace, and harm the Palestinian population. Respecting the fundamental rights of Palestinians should not be contingent on reaching a peace agreement. Therefore, it is imperative for countries to act swiftly in implementing measures that promote justice and accountability for the Palestinian people.
