The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on Thursday on the Palestinians’ application to become a full UN member state, amidst Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. The Palestinians, who have had observer status at the United Nations since 2012, have been lobbying for years to gain full membership.
The Palestinian side has expressed optimism, citing the recognition of a Palestinian state by 137 of the 193 UN member states. However, the Palestinian push for UN membership faces a significant hurdle, as the United States, Israel’s closest ally, could use its veto power to block the Security Council recommendation.
The Arab Group, which includes Algeria, a non-permanent Security Council member, has issued a statement affirming its “unwavering support” for the Palestinians’ application. The statement emphasizes that membership in the United Nations is a crucial step towards a just and lasting resolution of the Palestinian question in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions.
The United States has voiced its opposition to full Palestinian membership, stating that it supports statehood but only after negotiations with Israel. The State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller, reiterated this stance in April, stating that such a move should be pursued through direct negotiations between the parties and not at the United Nations.
Israel’s UN Ambassador, Gilad Erdan, has strongly opposed the Palestinian membership bid, stating that the Security Council’s consideration of granting the perpetrators and supporters of October 7 full membership status in the UN is a victory for genocidal terror.
Palestinians’ application for full UN membership comes at a time of escalating tensions in the region, with Israel’s military offensive in Gaza and the fallout from Iran’s recent attack on Israel. The international community closely monitors the situation, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation.