On the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, the United Nations has reasserted its unwavering support for Palestinians in their pursuit of justice, rights, and self-determination.
November 29 marks the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The day, established by the UN General Assembly in 1977, brings to the limelight the ongoing Palestinian struggle in their quest for self-determination, peace, and fundamental rights, especially amid the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.
The day serves as a moment for the global community to reflect on the indelible challenges Palestinians face and reassert commitments to upholding peace and justice. The October 7 terror attacks by Hamas and Israel’s response have, since then, left Gaza in ruins.
Similarly, throughout this period, the conflict has since reportedly left well over 43,000 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children, killed. The occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, has seen extensive Israeli military operations, settlement expansion, Palestinian evictions, demolitions, settler violence, and threats of annexation, all of which exacerbate the pain and injustice felt.
As a result, the United Nations’ point of emphasis for the 2024 International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is on the importance of dialogue and palpable support to address the enduring issues in the region. The United Nation’s Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called attention to the crushing impact the ongoing conflict poses on civilians, particularly children, reiterating the importance of upholding fundamental human rights, including maintaining access to clean water, food, and safety.
Guterres described the situation as a profound moral and humanitarian challenge. He stressed the urgent necessity of protecting civilians, particularly amid heightened violence and displacement, which continue to escalate suffering for millions. These appeals highlight the pressing need for compliance with international humanitarian law to prevent further deterioration of conditions.
In addition to addressing immediate crises, the UN continues to advocate for a long-term resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict centered on the two-state solution, as corroborated by the International Court of Justice and the General Assembly. This vision envisions Israel and Palestine coexisting peacefully and securely as independent states, with borders based on pre-1967 lines and Jerusalem as a shared capital.
Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to working towards this goal while urging member states and stakeholders to renew their commitment to achieving sustainable peace. Ultimately, the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People underscores the necessity of collective efforts to end suffering, uphold human rights, and achieve a peaceful resolution.
As the UN leads these efforts, it also invites global citizens to reflect on their role in fostering empathy, understanding, and action for those affected by conflict.