Story perspectives

UN Assembly Backs Aid to Gaza, Sparks Controversy

12/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

The United Nations General Assembly endorsed the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion supporting aid entry into Gaza through UN agencies, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
The resolution received support from 139 countries, with 12 opposing it, including Israel and the United States.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini viewed the vote as a strong endorsement against allegations of UNRWA's connections to Hamas.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that UNRWA should not be involved in Gaza's future and mentioned potential sanctions that could severely impact its operations.

History

Historical Context

In 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 194, affirming the right of Palestinian refugees to return home after the 1947–1949 Palestine war, which displaced around 700,000 Palestinians. This resolution led to the establishment of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). Ongoing international support for humanitarian aid in Gaza reflects the enduring significance of this resolution in regional geopolitics.

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Story summary

The United Nations General Assembly endorsed the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion supporting aid entry into Gaza through UN agencies, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
The resolution received support from 139 countries, with 12 opposing it, including Israel and the United States.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini viewed the vote as a strong endorsement against allegations of UNRWA's connections to Hamas.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that UNRWA should not be involved in Gaza's future and mentioned potential sanctions that could severely impact its operations.

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