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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH abstains in UN vote on Israel-Hamas humanitarian truce

PH abstains in UN vote on Israel-Hamas humanitarian truce

Published Oct 28, 2023 03:21 am

The Philippines on Friday (New York time) abstained from voting in a UN General Assembly resolution that called for an immediate humanitarian truce between Israel and Hamas for the cessation of hostilities in the Middle East.

The Philippines was among the 45 countries that did not vote in the resolution following an emergency special session that was last requested in 1997.

Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the UN Antonio Lagdameo said the country's abstention was due to the resolution's failure to mention and condemn the October 7 attack by Hamas that led to the deaths of the civilians, including Filipinos.

"Because of this attack, we recognize Israel's right to self-defense, as provided for under article 51 of the UN Charter, reflected in the resolution," Lagdameo said in a speech delivered before the assembly. The Philippines' online statement did not include such text.

"Therefore, despite commendable efforts of the co-sponsors to improve the original text, for these reasons, my delegation abstained on the resolution," Lagdameo added.

A total of 120 countries voted in favor of the resolution, while 14 were against it.

Nevertheless, the Philippines still called for the prevention of escalation and for the safe evacuation and protection of "migrants in the conflict zones."

Lagdameo said the Philippines is noting "with grave concern" the escalation of hostilities that already left thousands of people dead and is condemning the killings perpetrated by Hamas.

He said the Philippines also joined the international community in the "swift release" of all hostages by Hamas, which was reportedly to be around 220.

The Philippines supported the UN efforts in delivering urgent humanitarian assistance and essential supplies to Palestinian civilians in Gaza and expressed hope for a solution to be reached with regards to the Rafah crossing.

The country reiterated its call for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine as the citizens of both sides "deserve a future where their rights, aspirations, and security are recognized and upheld."

"This enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a pivotal determinant for the peace and stability of the region," Lagdameo said.

"A lasting resolution can only be achieved through comprehensive dialogues and negotiations, anchored firmly in international law. The Philippines ardently urges all parties to elevate dialogue as the primary tool for a peaceful and lasting resolution," he added.

The three-page resolution called for "an immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities" and demanded that all parties comply with the international law.

The resolution also called for sustained access in Gaza to humanitarian assistance and demanded the continuous provision of basic supplies to the Palestinian territory.

Related Tags

UN General Assembly Israel-Hamas war
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