{"id":282988,"date":"2022-11-11T10:00:07","date_gmt":"2022-11-11T15:00:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/?post_type=document&#038;p=282988"},"modified":"2022-11-14T15:31:26","modified_gmt":"2022-11-14T20:31:26","slug":"fourth-committee-concluding-its-work-approves-six-draft-resolutions-including-request-for-icj-opinion-on-israeli-occupation-press-release-ga-spd-771","status":"publish","type":"document","link":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/fourth-committee-concluding-its-work-approves-six-draft-resolutions-including-request-for-icj-opinion-on-israeli-occupation-press-release-ga-spd-771\/","title":{"rendered":"Fourth Committee, Concluding Its Work, Approves Six Draft Resolutions, Including Request for ICJ Opinion on Israeli Occupation &#8211; Press Release (GA\/SPD\/771)"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"block\">\n<div><\/div>\n<div class=\"field field--name-field-symbol field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item\" style=\"text-align: right;\"><strong>GA\/SPD\/771<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"field field--name-field-dated field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item\" style=\"text-align: right;\"><strong><time datetime=\"2022-11-11T12:00:00Z\">11 NOVEMBER 2022<\/time><\/strong><\/div>\n<div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/press.un.org\/fr\/2022\/cpsd770.doc.htm\">Fran\u00e7ais\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/media.un.org\/en\/asset\/k17\/k17vigcdec\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Video<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h4><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Texts Would Also See General Assembly Renew UNRWA Mandate into 2026<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization), completing its work for the main part of the General Assembly\u2019s seventy-seventh session, approved six draft resolutions plus one draft decision today, including texts that would renew the mandate of the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and request an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">By a recorded vote of\u00a098 in favour to\u00a017 against, with 52 abstentions, it approved the draft resolution titled \u201cIsraeli practices affecting the human rights of the Palestinian people in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/israeli-practices-affecting-human-rights-of-the-palestinian-people-request-for-icj-advisory-opinion-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-12-rev-1\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.12\/Rev.1<\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">By its terms, the Assembly would demand that Israel cease all measures that violate the human rights of the Palestinian people, including the killing and injuring of civilians, the arbitrary detention and imprisonment of civilians, the forced displacement of civilians and the transfer of its own population into the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">It would also have the Assembly decide to request the International Court of Justice to render urgently an advisory opinion on the legal consequences arising from the ongoing violation by Israel of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, from its prolonged occupation, settlement and annexation of the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Israel\u2019s representative, in a general statement prior to the vote, said that calling for the Court\u2019s involvement would decimate any chances of reconciliation between Israel and the Palestinians.\u00a0\u00a0Urging delegations to vote against that text, he said such resolutions demonize Israel and exempt the Palestinians of any responsibility for their current situation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Several delegates expressed concern about requesting an advisory opinion from the Court, with France\u2019s representative, speaking on behalf of several countries, stressing that such proposals should be thoughtfully discussed and consulted on with the Â鶹APP membership in a timely manner.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Through the draft resolution titled \u201cAssistance to Palestine refugees\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/assistance-to-palestinian-refugees-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-10\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.10<\/a>) \u2014\u00a0<\/span>approved\u00a0<span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">by a recorded vote of\u00a0165 in favour to\u00a01 against (Israel), with 10 abstentions (Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Guatemala, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, United States, Uruguay) \u2014 the Assembly would extend UNRWA\u2019s mandate until 30\u00a0June 2026.\u00a0\u00a0It would also call upon donors to strengthen their efforts to meet the Agency\u2019s anticipated needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine welcomed the approval of that text and others as a crucial message of hope to the people of Palestine.\u00a0\u00a0Spotlighting support among delegations for an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice, he nevertheless expressed regret that some States had wavered and emphasized that the broad majority remains committed to justice.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Through a related draft resolution titled \u201cOperations of the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East\u201d (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/operations-of-unrwa-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-9\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.9<\/a>),<\/span>\u00a0the Assembly\u00a0<span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">would decide to consider a gradual increase in the Â鶹APP regular budget allocation to the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, to support expenses for operational costs related to executive and administrative management functions of the Agency.\u00a0\u00a0It was\u00a0<\/span>approved\u00a0<span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">by a recorded vote of\u00a0164 in favour to\u00a06 against (Canada, Israel, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, United States), with\u00a05 abstentions (Burundi, Cameroon, Guatemala, Rwanda, Uruguay).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Among other texts, the Committee approved a draft resolution on \u201cPalestine refugees\u2019 properties and their revenues\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/palestine-refugees-properties-and-their-revenues-ga-draft-resolution-on-a-c-4-77-l-11\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.11<\/a>), by a recorded vote of\u00a0160 in favour to\u00a07 against (Canada, Israel, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, United States), with\u00a07 abstentions (Brazil, Burundi, Cameroon, Guatemala, Rwanda, South Sudan, Togo).\u00a0\u00a0Its terms would have the Assembly request the Secretary-General to take appropriate steps, in consultation with the Â鶹APP Conciliation Commission for Palestine, to protect Arab property, assets and property rights in Israel.\u00a0\u00a0It would also urge the Palestinian and Israeli sides to deal with the question of Palestine refugees\u2019 properties and their revenues within the framework of final-status peace negotiations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">A draft resolution titled \u201cThe occupied Syrian Golan\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/the-occupied-syrian-golan-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-13\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.13<\/a>)<\/span>\u00a0was approved\u00a0<span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">by a recorded vote of\u00a0148 in favour to\u00a03 against (Israel, Liberia, United States), with\u00a022 abstentions.\u00a0\u00a0By its terms, the Assembly would call upon Israel, the occupying Power, to comply with relevant resolutions on the Syrian Golan, in particular Security Council resolution\u00a0497 (1981).\u00a0\u00a0It would also call upon Israel to desist from changing the Syrian Golan\u2019s physical character, demographic composition, institutional structure and legal status, and to desist in particular from the establishment of settlements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">By a recorded vote of 150 in favour to\u00a08 against (Canada, Hungary, Israel, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, United States), with\u00a014 abstentions,<\/span>\u00a0the Committee approved<span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">\u00a0the draft resolution titled \u201cIsraeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/israeli-settlements-in-the-occupied-palestinian-territory-including-east-jerusalem-and-the-occupied-syrian-golan-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-14\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.14<\/a>).\u00a0\u00a0By its terms, the Assembly would reiterate its demand for the immediate and complete cessation of all Israeli settlement activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan.\u00a0\u00a0It would also reiterate its call for the prevention of all acts of violence, destruction, harassment and provocation by Israeli settlers, and call for accountability for the illegal actions perpetrated by Israeli settlers in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Finally, acting without a vote, the Committee also approved a draft decision on its programme of work for the seventy-eighth session, with several delegates taking the floor to discuss whether the Committee should amend its working methods in light of lessons learned during the COVID\u201119 pandemic.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">In concluding remarks, Committee Chair Mohamed Al Hassan (Oman) noted that the Committee approved 34 draft resolutions and 3 draft decisions during the main session, which contained 26 formal meetings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Also delivering general statements and explanations of position concerning the draft resolutions were representatives of Australia, United States, Uruguay, Singapore, Ecuador, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Japan, Kenya, Austria, Iran, China, United Kingdom and Timor-Leste.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Making general statements concerning the draft decision were representatives of the United States, Argentina, Mexico, Cuba, Uruguay, Algeria, Nicaragua, El\u00a0Salvador, United Kingdom and Egypt.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Representatives of South Africa, Indonesia, Cuba and Namibia presented the draft resolutions for action.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Fourth Committee will reconvene in 2023 at a date and time to be announced, to take up the report of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations and to elect its Bureau for the General Assembly\u2019s seventy-eighth session.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><u><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Action on Draft Resolutions<\/span><\/u><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Committee first took up a series of draft resolutions (documents A\/C.4\/77\/L.9-L.11) relating to \u201cOperations of the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East\u201d (L.9), \u201cAssistance to Palestine Refugees\u201d (L.10) and \u201cPalestine refugees\u2019 properties and their revenues\u201d (L.11).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>South Africa<\/u>, introducing those texts with Indonesia, said they are based on resolutions adopted by the Assembly at its seventy-sixth session, with relevant updates.\u00a0\u00a0They reaffirm the rights of Palestine refugees, as well as the international community\u2019s long-standing support for the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).\u00a0\u00a0The most significant update to \u201cL.10\u201d is the decision to renew UNRWA\u2019s mandate.\u00a0\u00a0It also reiterates a call to donors to continue to contribute to the Agency and to increase their contributions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Indonesia<\/u>\u00a0added that \u201cL.9\u201d reaffirms that UNRWA\u2019s work remains crucial against a backdrop of serious economic deterioration in the region.\u00a0\u00a0It appeals to donors to close the funding gap to allow the Agency to continue its programme and avoid the serious repercussions of the potential suspension of its activities.\u00a0\u00a0Turning to \u201cL.11\u201d, he noted that it reaffirms Palestine refugees are entitled to income from their property.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Namibia<\/u>\u00a0then introduced the draft resolution titled \u201cIsraeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian people in occupied Palestinian territory, including East\u00a0Jerusalem\u201d (document\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/israeli-practices-affecting-the-human-rights-of-the-palestinian-people-in-the-opt-including-east-jerusalem-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-12\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.12<\/a>), saying that it has been nearly 20\u00a0years since the General Assembly last asked the International Court of Justice for an advisory opinion regarding the Palestinian question.\u00a0\u00a0In that span of time, the situation has only worsened.\u00a0\u00a0Requesting an advisory opinion is not a controversial or confrontational response to a deplorable situation, but rather a peaceful, civilized and legal initiative to allow the Court to pronounce itself on this matter.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Cuba<\/u>, introducing the draft resolution titled \u201cThe occupied Syrian Golan\u201d (document\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/the-occupied-syrian-golan-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-13\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.1<\/a>3), said it expresses the Assembly\u2019s deep concern over that situation, which dates back to 1967.\u00a0\u00a0Introducing the draft resolution titled \u201cIsraeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and the occupied Syrian Golan\u201d (document\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/israeli-settlements-in-the-occupied-palestinian-territory-including-east-jerusalem-and-the-occupied-syrian-golan-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-14\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.14<\/a>), he said it underscores the need to put an end to settlement activities and the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Secretary of the Committee delivered an oral statement pertaining to operative paragraph\u00a016bis of \u201cL.9\u201d, saying that the text, if adopted by the Assembly, would entail no programme budgetary implications in the Secretariat\u2019s programme budget for 2023.\u00a0\u00a0However, due to the need for more internal consultations, the Secretariat cannot provide estimates for additional resource requirements for 2024 and subsequent years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Committee then moved to take action on the UNRWA-related drafts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">It first approved the draft resolution \u201cOperations of the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East\u201d (document A\/C.4\/77\/L.9) by a recorded vote of\u00a0164 in favour to\u00a06 against (Canada, Israel, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, United States), with\u00a05 abstentions (Burundi, Cameroon, Guatemala, Rwanda, Uruguay).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">It then approved the draft resolution \u201cAssistance to Palestine refugees\u201d (document A\/C.4\/77\/L.10), by a recorded vote of\u00a0165 in favour to\u00a01 against (Israel), with\u00a010 abstentions (Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Guatemala, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, United States, Uruguay).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Next, it approved the draft resolution on \u201cPalestine refugees\u2019 properties and their revenues\u201d (document A\/C.4\/77\/L.11), by a recorded vote of\u00a0160 in favour to\u00a07 against (Canada, Israel, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, United States), with\u00a07 abstentions (Brazil, Burundi, Cameroon, Guatemala, Rwanda, South Sudan, Togo).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Australia<\/u>, speaking in explanation of position, said her delegation voted in favour of \u201cL.9\u201d in recognition of UNRWA\u2019s vital work.\u00a0\u00a0Her country is doubling its contribution to the Agency to $A20\u00a0million, she said, adding however that that does not represent an endorsement of the proposal to increase the regular budget allocation to UNRWA.\u00a0\u00a0Turning to \u201cL.11\u201d, she noted that her country supported the resolution because \u201cno one should be arbitrarily deprived of their property\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Committee then took up draft resolutions relating to Israeli practices and settlement activities affecting the rights of the Palestinian people and other Arabs of the occupied territories.\u00a0\u00a0Those were titled \u201cIsraeli practices affecting the human rights of the Palestinian people in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/israeli-practices-affecting-human-rights-of-the-palestinian-people-request-for-icj-advisory-opinion-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-12-rev-1\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.12\/Rev.1<\/a>), \u201cThe occupied Syrian Golan (document A\/C.4\/77\/L.13) and \u201cIsraeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/israeli-settlements-in-the-occupied-palestinian-territory-including-east-jerusalem-and-the-occupied-syrian-golan-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-14\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.14<\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Israel<\/u>, making a general statement on all three drafts, said their only purpose is to demonize Israel and exempt the Palestinians of any responsibility of their current situation.\u00a0\u00a0Recalling that Israel signed four peace agreements with other States in the last two years, and that Israelis pray for peace three times a day, he said that involving the International Court of Justice will decimate any chances of reconciliation.\u00a0\u00a0Noting the \u201cunilateral approach of the resolutions\u201d, he urged delegates to vote against them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of the\u00a0<u>United States<\/u>\u00a0said there are no short cuts to the two-State solution and there is nothing in the package of draft resolutions before the Committee that will ensure this.\u00a0\u00a0Calling on all Member States to vote against this package of counterproductive resolutions, he said his country will support the UNRWA budget through voluntary contributions, and urged the Agency to uphold its commitment to neutrality, impartiality and humanity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Committee approved the draft resolution \u201cIsraeli practices affecting the human rights of the Palestinian people in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/israeli-practices-affecting-human-rights-of-the-palestinian-people-request-for-icj-advisory-opinion-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-12-rev-1\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.12\/Rev.1<\/a>) by a recorded vote of\u00a098 in favour to\u00a017 against, with 52 abstentions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">It then approved the draft resolution \u201cThe occupied Syrian Golan\u201d (document <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/the-occupied-syrian-golan-ga-draft-resolution-a-c-4-77-l-13\/\">A\/C.4\/77\/L.13<\/a>) by a recorded vote of 148 in favour to\u00a03 against (Liberia, Israel, United States), with 22 abstentions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Next, it approved the draft resolution \u201cIsraeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan\u201d (document A\/C.4\/77\/L.14) by a recorded vote of\u00a0150 in favour to\u00a08 against (Canada, Hungary, Israel, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, United States), with 14 abstentions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Uruguay<\/u>, making a general statement after the vote, disassociated himself from operative paragraph\u00a017bis of \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d, explaining that while advisory opinions from the International Court of Justice are valuable for the international community, in this instance it would be counterproductive and add an unnecessary element of tension.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>France<\/u>, speaking on behalf of a group of countries, stressed the need for language on Jerusalem\u2019s holy sites to reflect their importance and historical significance for the three monotheistic religions.\u00a0\u00a0The future choice of language may affect future support for these texts.\u00a0\u00a0He added that proposals to request advisory opinions from the International Court of Justice should be thoroughly discussed and consulted on with the Â鶹APP membership in a timely manner.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Australia<\/u>\u00a0said her delegation voted against \u201cL.12\u201d because it does not support a referral to the International Court of Justice.\u00a0\u00a0Doing so will not help bring the parties together for negotiations, she said, adding that advisory opinions should not be used to settle bilateral disputes.\u00a0\u00a0On \u201cL.14\u201d, she said Australia voted in favour as Israeli settlements remain an obstacle to peace.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Singapore<\/u>, which voted in favour of \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d, expressed reservations on operative paragraph\u00a018, saying it was not appropriate to involve the Court in this manner.\u00a0\u00a0Drawing attention to the lack of time to properly consider the matter, he added that references to Haram\u00a0al\u00a0Sharif should in fact read Temple\u00a0Mount\/Haram\u00a0al\u00a0Sharif to reflect the site\u2019s shared and complex history.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Ecuador<\/u>\u00a0said his delegation abstained on \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d due to the recent inclusion of new language pertaining to an advisory opinion.\u00a0\u00a0That language was not subject to consultations, he said, spotlighting also the lack of time to analyse it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Liechtenstein<\/u>\u00a0noted that the request for an advisory opinion was inserted into \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d with little notice and without consultation of Committee members as a whole, even though it has ramifications that go far beyond the conflict in the Middle East.\u00a0\u00a0The request would have been strengthened by the collective wisdom of a larger group of Member States, particularly already supportive of its aims, he said.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>New Zealand<\/u>\u00a0echoed the concern regarding \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d and while reaffirming that Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory are a violation of international law, added that his delegation abstained as the text was not circulated in time for consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Japan<\/u>, which abstained on \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d, acknowledged the Palestinians\u2019 desire to explore any possible avenue, given the dire situation on the ground.\u00a0\u00a0However, it is necessary to consider which approach is most appropriate to achieve peace in the Middle East.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Kenya<\/u>\u00a0said that while his delegation voted in favour of \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d, it dissociates itself from operating paragraph\u00a018 as it is too prescriptive and pre\u2011emptive of the proposed International Court of Justice process.\u00a0\u00a0Rather than increasing the chances for negotiations, it risks creating another barrier, he said.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Austria<\/u>, underscoring the need for language to reflect the importance and historical significance of the holy sites of the three monotheistic religions, expressed regret about the manner in which the proposal for an advisory opinion was included in this resolution.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Iran<\/u>, delivering a general statement, welcomed the widespread support among delegates for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and for holding the occupying regime accountable.\u00a0\u00a0Support for the Israeli regime by certain powers has prevented the international community from finding a just solution to the crisis, he added.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Permanent Observer of the\u00a0<u>State of Palestine<\/u>\u00a0said the reaffirmation of the rights of Palestine refugee and support to UNRWA sends a crucial message of hope.\u00a0\u00a0Spotlighting the support for an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice, he expressed regret that some States had wavered, adding that the broad majority of Member States remain committed to justice for the Palestinian people.\u00a0\u00a0\u201cThis overwhelming support is also the clearest answer to the false, libellous statements that have been made in this Committee by the Israeli representative\u201d, he added.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>China<\/u>, whose delegation voted in favour of three resolutions, said that when considering an advisory opinion, the International Court of Justice must abide strictly by the Â鶹APP Charter.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of the\u00a0<u>United Kingdom<\/u>, which abstained, said that his delegation does not believe that referral to the International Court of Justice will bring the parties back to the negotiating table.\u00a0\u00a0It also disagreed with the language that refers to the Haram al\u00a0Sharif\/Temple\u00a0Mount site in purely Islamic terms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Timor-Leste<\/u>, which voted in favour of \u201cL.12\/Rev.1\u201d, dissociated himself from the substantial update made to the resolution, especially operative paragraph\u00a018.\u00a0\u00a0Urgently requesting an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice might undermine the peace, especially efforts to achieve a two\u2011State solution.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Finally, the Committee turned to its annual draft decision titled \u201cProposed programme of work and timetable of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth\u00a0Committee) for the seventy\u2011eighth session of the General Assembly\u201d (document\u00a0A\/C.4\/77\/L.15).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of the\u00a0<u>United\u00a0States<\/u>, pointing to the efficiency of work methods adopted during the COVID\u201119 pandemic, said it is worth considering ways to optimize \u201cthe time we are all in this room together\u201d by combining thematic debates and allocating all action on draft decisions and resolutions to one or two days.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Argentina<\/u>\u00a0expressed concern over attempts to change working methods without sufficient discussion.\u00a0\u00a0Adaptations made during the COVID\u201119 pandemic did not establish precedents for future sessions.\u00a0\u00a0He also underscored the importance of thematic debates and focusing specifically on decolonization.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Mexico<\/u>\u00a0said the draft decision under consideration reflects the experience of previous sessions and highlighted the value of a discussion among Member States to exchange points of view.\u00a0\u00a0What is needed is more dialogue and negotiation in the Committee, he said.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Cuba<\/u>\u00a0said the Committee\u2019s methods of work reflect the experience developed over the years.\u00a0\u00a0Efforts to transform these methods and reduce the importance of the Committee are inappropriate, and any changes should be done only by consensus and through substantive debates.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Uruguay<\/u>\u00a0said that while the pandemic proved that the Committee\u2019s methods of work can be perfected, revitalization cannot be undertaken at the expense of its work, which has very sensitive and specific modalities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Algeria<\/u>\u00a0said that decolonization is the Committee\u2019s core issue and that changes to its working methods adopted during the pandemic cannot be considered a precedent.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Nicaragua<\/u>\u00a0said it is important to dedicate sufficient time to consider each item carefully and not limit or dilute topics that are extremely important.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>El\u00a0Salvador<\/u>\u00a0highlighted the importance of dedicating sufficient time for discussing working methods, adding that the General Assembly and its main Committees can, where there is sufficient political will, adapt to complex situations and respond in a timely way.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of the\u00a0<u>United\u00a0Kingdom<\/u>\u00a0said that revitalization of the General Assembly\u2019s work must be considered carefully instead of being \u201cnodded through\u201d.\u00a0\u00a0He encouraged Member States not to take preconceived ideas into discussions and to think instead about ways to improve the Committee\u2019s work.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The representative of\u00a0<u>Egypt<\/u>\u00a0favoured preserving the current methods of work, saying that they take delegations with a limited number of personnel into account.\u00a0\u00a0He added that practices adopted during the pandemic were temporary and that there is no need to continue with them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">MOHAMED AL HASSAN (Oman), Committee Chair, taking note of the many divergent views, proposed revisiting this matter during the intersessional period in order to allow time for further consultations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">The Committee, acting without a vote, then approved the draft decision titled \u201cProposed programme of work and timetable of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth\u00a0Committee) for the seventy\u2011eighth session of the General Assembly\u201d (document A\/C.4\/77\/L.15).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><u><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">Concluding Remarks<\/span><\/u><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\">MOHAMED AL HASSAN (Oman), Committee Chair, delivered concluding remarks, saying that during this main session, the Committee approved 34\u00a0draft resolutions and 3\u00a0draft decisions which will be referred to the General Assembly for adoption.\u00a0\u00a0It held 26\u00a0formal meetings, including one held jointly with the First Committee (Disarmament and International Security), on topics ranging from decolonization and the peaceful uses of outer space to peacekeeping operations and the Â鶹APP\u2019 global communications efforts.\u00a0\u00a0He added that the Committee will reconvene in 2023 to take up the report of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations and to elect its Bureau for the Assembly\u2019s seventy\u2011eighth session.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>For information media. Not an official record.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>GA\/SPD\/771 11 NOVEMBER 2022 Fran\u00e7ais\u00a0 Video Texts Would Also See General Assembly Renew UNRWA Mandate into 2026 The Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization), completing its work for the main part of the General Assembly\u2019s seventy-seventh session, approved six draft resolutions plus one draft decision today, including texts that would renew the mandate of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/fourth-committee-concluding-its-work-approves-six-draft-resolutions-including-request-for-icj-opinion-on-israeli-occupation-press-release-ga-spd-771\/\"> 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