Herzog Hails UN Resolution as Historic Milestone

Israel Marks Landmark Security Council Decision

(241120) -- UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 20, 2024 (Xinhua) -- Representatives vote on a UN Security Council draft resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza at the UN headquarters in New York, on Nov. 20, 2024. The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. (Xinhua/Xie E)

Herzog Welcomes US-Drafted UN Resolution as a Historic Turning Point

President Isaac Herzog praised the adoption of the U.S.-drafted UN Security Council resolution, calling it a “historic landmark.” During a meeting in Jerusalem with 180 young German leaders from media, culture, innovation, and civil society, he emphasized that the decision reflects a major shift in global diplomacy. According to Herzog, former President Donald Trump played a central role in shaping this moment.

Credits Trump for Advancing a New Diplomatic Phase

Reflecting on recent events, Herzog said the resolution marks a significant step forward after the Hamas attack of October 7 two years earlier. He commended Israeli soldiers for their bravery and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to preventing another cycle of violence.

Furthermore, he noted that the resolution focuses on rebuilding Gaza and creating an international force to eliminate Hamas’s military capabilities. With this approach, Gaza’s civilians could eventually rebuild their lives with support from global organizations and financial institutions. In addition, Herzog stressed the urgent need to return all Israeli hostages, including three bodies still held in Gaza.

Calls for a Clear Plan for the Future

Herzog urged all parties to begin planning for “the day after” the conflict. In his view, Trump’s plan has reopened space for a more cautious and realistic discussion about peace. Moreover, he argued that any long-term framework must protect Israel’s security, support Gaza’s reconstruction, and consider developments in the West Bank. Above all, he insisted that violence “must end in every form.”

Dialogue, Reform, and Regional Cooperation

The president encouraged stronger communication between Israelis and Palestinians. He warned that political arguments and hostile media narratives often hinder progress. To counter this trend, he promoted people-to-people engagement, new regional initiatives, and renewed cooperation with international partners.

Additionally, Herzog urged European governments to rethink long-held assumptions about the conflict and avoid assigning blame solely to Israel. He called on Palestinian leaders to pursue reforms, end payments to attackers, and stop rhetoric that promotes violence. Only then, he said, can both sides begin shaping a shared and stable future.

Strong Warning Over Global Rise in Antisemitism

Herzog also raised serious concerns about the worldwide surge in antisemitism. He described it as “the oldest and most dangerous disease of humanity” and warned that hatred directed at Jews rarely remains confined. Recent demonstrations against Israel, he noted, have frequently led to attacks on Jewish communities, synagogues, and schools.

He referenced a troubling incident in Manchester two months earlier as one example of this trend. Finally, Herzog urged nations to respond with firm law enforcement, fair judicial action, and—most importantly—strong educational efforts to prevent further escalation.
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