India showed strong support for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the United Nations on Friday. The country voted yes in the UN General Assembly to let Abbas give a virtual speech next week. This comes after the US government under President Donald Trump canceled his visa, blocking his in-person visit.
The UN General Assembly wrapped up its session with a big win for Palestine. A total of 145 countries backed the resolution, allowing Abbas to submit a prerecorded video message. It will play in the main hall during the event. Only five nations—Israel, the United States, Palau, Paraguay, and Nauru—voted against it, while six others chose to abstain.
This decision highlights India’s stance on Palestinian rights amid ongoing tensions. Just weeks earlier, the Palestinian Authority had asked the US to restore Abbas’s visa. He wanted to lead his delegation and speak directly at the UNGA. But the US State Department revoked visas for Abbas and about 80 other Palestinian officials, pointing to national security reasons.
The UN General Assembly speeches kick off on Tuesday. Leaders will first meet on Monday for a special summit hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. The goal? To push forward a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Trump’s visa cancellation has drawn sharp criticism worldwide. The UN says it breaks the Host Country Agreement, which requires the US to let world leaders enter New York for these annual meetings and diplomatic talks.
These visa restrictions hit at a tough time. The world is increasingly calling out Israel’s military actions in Gaza and rising violence by Israeli settlers and forces in the occupied West Bank. In response to nearly two years of devastating attacks, more countries—especially in Europe—are planning to recognize Palestinian statehood at the UN this September.
Local health officials in Gaza report a heartbreaking toll from Israel’s war since October 2023: at least 65,141 people killed and 165,925 wounded. Thousands more are likely trapped under rubble, adding to the urgency for peace efforts.
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