UN General Assembly overwhelming vote on Syrian Golan and Peace Process
Syria-Israel, Politics, 12/2/2004

The UN General Assembly on Wednesday called on Israel to withdraw from the occupied Syria Golan till the June 4th 1967 line as stated by the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

The General Assembly adopted a resolution by a landslide majority of votes, saying that Israeli continued occupation of the Syrian Golan and the de facto annexation of the plateau to Israel pose an obstacle to the aspired just and comprehensive peace in the region.

The resolution said Israel has so far not abided by the UN Security Council resolution No. 497, adding that Israel's 1981 decision on extending its jurisdiction on the occupied Syrian Golan is void and null and has no legal basis at all.

The General Assembly reiterated rejection of seizure of other countries' land by force, and said the Fourth Geneva Convention on the protection of civilians in time of war applies to the occupied Syrian Golan. It also emphasized illegality of settlement building in the Golan since 1867.

Only six countries voted against the General Assembly's move, including the U.S., Israel and four others. A great number of UN member countries had fielded the draft resolution to the international organization.

The General Assembly called on all parties concerned to resume the peace process and make it a success through the implementation of the UN resolutions 242 and 338. it also urged Israel to resume talks on the Syrian and Lebanese tracks and observe pledges and commitments reached in previous talks.

Previous Stories:
  Syria denies giving up Rabin's deposit for negotiating with Israel   (12/1/2004)
  UN Committee and the Syrian Golan   (11/26/2004)
  Discussions on the Israeli practices at the UN headquarters   (11/10/2004)
  Syria's ambassador in the UN highlights developments   (11/6/2004)
  Golan people delegation ends visit to homeland Syria   (9/9/2004)

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