The United Nations General Assembly has taken a significant step to enhance Palestinian representation on the global stage, passing a resolution that enables Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to deliver a video address during the 80th session of the Assembly. The resolution garnered overwhelming support, with 145 countries voting in favor, while only five nations—Israel, Nauru, Palau, Paraguay, and the United States—opposed it. Six countries, including Albania, Fiji, Hungary, North Macedonia, Panama, and Papua New Guinea, chose to abstain from the vote.
This historic decision sets forth procedures for the delivery of pre-recorded statements by world leaders, allowing President Abbas to present his address from a remote location, facilitated by one of Palestine’s representatives based in New York. This move underscores the UN’s commitment to ensuring that Palestinian voices are heard, especially in light of recent challenges.
The resolution also permits the use of live links or pre-recorded videos for high-level conferences that will address the critical issue of the two-state solution, along with other significant meetings. However, it’s important to note that these arrangements are specific to the current 80th session of the General Assembly.
In a related development, the 193-member Assembly unanimously adopted a decision proposed by Saudi Arabia, allowing Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to also deliver a statement via video or pre-recorded message at the forthcoming high-level conference scheduled for September 22, 2025. This collaborative effort highlights the ongoing dialogue regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the quest for a durable resolution.
The backdrop to these diplomatic advancements includes a recent announcement from the US Department of State, which on August 29, revealed that it would be denying and revoking visas for certain members of the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Palestinian Authority. Citing national security concerns, the State Department claimed these individuals had not met previous commitments and were “undermining the prospects for peace.” This decision has drawn significant criticism from various quarters, highlighting the complexities surrounding US-Palestinian relations.
The UN’s support for Abbas’s video address and the broader context of Palestinian representation reflects a growing recognition of the importance of inclusive dialogue in resolving longstanding conflicts. As global leaders prepare for upcoming discussions on the future of the two-state solution, the ability for Palestinian officials to participate and present their perspectives remains crucial in the pursuit of a just and lasting peace in the region.
