UN Resolutions Support Palestinian Sovereignty and Compensation for Lebanon and Syria
On Thursday, November 14, the UN Economic and Financial Committee passed two significant resolutions aimed at addressing longstanding regional issues. The resolutions call for Israel to compensate Lebanon and Syria for environmental damage caused by an oil slick and to recognize Palestinian sovereignty over their natural resources.
The oil slick, which resulted from Israeli airstrikes on storage tanks near the Jiyah electric power plant in 2006, contaminated approximately two-thirds of Lebanon’s coastline. The UN report estimates the damage at $856.4 million, severely impacting Lebanon’s biodiversity and economy. The draft resolution, introduced by Uganda, was supported by 161 countries, with only seven nations, including the U.S., Canada, and Israel, voting against it.
In addition to addressing the oil slick, the second resolution emphasizes the rights of the Palestinian people to their natural resources in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and the Golan Heights. It cites the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion and reinforces the principle of permanent sovereignty for peoples under foreign occupation. This resolution received 159 votes in favor, with similar opposition from the U.S. and its allies.
Palestinian representatives expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the need for accountability for Israeli actions. They criticized Israel’s ongoing military operations, asserting that these actions violate international law and hinder Palestinian development. Lebanon’s representative also condemned Israel’s use of chemical substances during military operations, which have long-term detrimental effects on the environment and public health.
