Philippines votes for Gaza ceasefire at UN

The Philippine government joined 149 other countries in voting for a United Nations resolution calling for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza conflict on Thursday, June 12.

The resolution, adopted during an emergency session at the UN General Assembly, also condemned the use of starvation as a method of warfare and the denial of humanitarian access.

Among those opposing the resolution were the United States, Israel, Argentina, Hungary, and Paraguay, while countries like India, Albania, and Czechia abstained.

The UN General Assembly emphasized that Israel is legally obligated to ensure humanitarian aid reaches all those in need and facilitate unhindered entry of goods into Gaza.

The resolution also demands the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas and other groups.

While not legally binding, the resolution carries significant political and moral weight according to the United Nations.

This comes after a similar UN Security Council resolution failed last week due to a US veto.