🗳️ Damascus welcomes UN vote on Golan, citing growing support for Syria

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Foreign Ministry stated on Wednesday that the significant rise in the number of countries voting in favor of a UN resolution on the “occupied” Golan Heights—from 97 last year to 123 this year—reflects growing backing for Syria. In a statement, the ministry expressed its gratitude to the states that backed the resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in emerging York, especially those that changed their position in favor of the measure this year. The ministry noted that the resolution calls on Israel to withdraw from all occupied Syrian Golan territory to the June 4, 1967 line.

It added that Israel has yet to comply with Security Council Resolution 497, and emphasized that Israel’s persisted occupation and de facto annexation of the Golan remain a significant obstacle to achieving a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the region. The statement also underscored Syria’s commitment to severe discussions on technical matters that affect its security and the security and stability of the region. On Tuesday night, the UN General Assembly adopted the resolution—titled “The Syrian Golan” and submitted by Egypt on behalf of the Arab Group—with 123 votes in favor, 7 against, and 41 abstentions.

The resolution reaffirms the demand that Israel fully withdraw from the Golan to the June 4, 1967 line, in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions, and rejects any unilateral measures related to the annexation of the territory. The text reiterates that Israel’s persisted application of its laws and jurisdiction over the Syrian Golan is illegal and in violation of Security Council Resolution 497 (1981), which declared such measures void with no legal effect. Syria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ibrahim Olabi, stated the vote—backed for the first time by 123 countries—demonstrates that Syria remains firm in its right to the Golan.

By Malin Mohammed