Manila: The Philippine government is among the 149 countries that voted in favor of a United Nations resolution demanding an 'immediate, unconditional, and permanent' ceasefire in the war in Gaza. The UN General Assembly adopted the resolution with 149 votes in favor, 12 against, and 12 abstentions.

According to Philippines News Agency, among those opposing the resolution were the United States, Israel, Argentina, Hungary, and Paraguay. Countries such as India, Albania, Czechia, Georgia, Ecuador, Romania, Timor-Leste, and Ethiopia chose to abstain from the vote.

The resolution strongly condemned the use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and the 'unlawful denial of humanitarian access' in Gaza. It emphasized Israel's obligation under international law to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches all populations in need, demanding the 'immediate and permanent facilitation of full, rapid, safe, and unhindered entry' of goods throughout the enclave.

Furthermore, the resolution reiterated the General Assembly's call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. Although General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, the UN stated that they carry significant political and moral weight.

The adoption of this resolution follows the UN Security Council's failure to pass a similar document last week due to a lone veto by the US.