Saudi Arabia Urges Immediate Gaza Ceasefire And Reaffirms Support For UNRWA At UNGA Session

Ambassador Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, Saudi Arabia's permanent representative to the United Nations, reiterated the Kingdom's call for a ceasefire in Gaza during the UN General Assembly's 10th emergency special session on Palestine. The session focused on two resolutions: supporting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and demanding a ceasefire in Gaza.

Al-Wasil criticised the misuse of veto power and selective application of international law, which he said have perpetuated genocide, intensified Israeli crimes in Gaza, and expanded aggression. He also welcomed the ceasefire in Lebanon while condemning Israeli violations of that agreement. "The abuse of veto power and selectivity in applying international law have contributed to the continuation of the war of genocide," he stated.

The ambassador highlighted UNRWA's essential role and condemned Israeli actions against it, including legislation targeting its mandate. He urged active involvement in an upcoming high-level international conference on resolving the Palestinian issue. This conference, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, is set for June in New York.

Saudi Arabia remains committed to supporting Palestinian rights, with peace as a strategic choice based on a two-state solution and the Arab Peace Initiative. This stance aligns with international legitimacy resolutions. Al-Wasil reaffirmed unwavering support for Palestinians, emphasising peace through these frameworks.

In response to recent events in Syria, Al-Wasil condemned Israeli attacks on Syrian territories. He argued these actions show Israel's ongoing violation of international law and intent to undermine Syria's security and stability. He also reiterated that the Golan Heights are part of Arab and Syrian identity.

The Saudi delegation supported both resolutions at the UNGA session. The resolution backing UNRWA’s mandate passed with 159 countries voting in favour, 9 against, and 11 abstentions. The resolution calling for a Gaza ceasefire received 158 votes in favour, 9 against, and 13 abstentions.

With inputs from SPA