In response to Palestine’s application for full membership in the United Nations, several frequently asked questions arise, illustrating the intricate process and the challenges involved:
1. What is required for a state to gain full UN membership?
• For a state to become a full member of the United Nations, its application must first receive the support of at least nine out of the 15 members of the Security Council, including the approval of all five permanent members, without any of them exercising their veto power. Following this, the application must be approved by a two-thirds majority in the General Assembly.
2. Why has the US threatened to veto Palestine’s application?
• The United States has consistently argued that Palestinian statehood should be the result of direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine, rather than through unilateral actions in international forums. The US position is that a lasting peace agreement must precede full UN membership for Palestine.
3. Has Palestine applied for UN membership before?
• Yes, Palestine has previously applied for full UN membership. A notable attempt was in 2011, which did not advance to a vote in the Security Council due to insufficient support and the anticipated US veto.
4. What is Palestine’s current status at the UN?
• Since 2012, Palestine has held the status of a non-member observer state at the United Nations, similar to the Vatican. This status allows Palestine to participate in General Assembly debates and improves its chances of joining UN agencies and signing international treaties.
5. What would full UN membership mean for Palestine?
• Achieving full UN membership would be a significant symbolic victory for Palestine, affirming its sovereignty and statehood on the international stage. It would also grant Palestine full voting rights and the ability to participate in all UN functions and agencies as a member state.
6. What are Israel’s objections to Palestinian UN membership?
• Israel opposes Palestinian UN membership outside of a negotiated peace agreement, arguing that unilateral steps could undermine the prospects for a two-state solution and direct negotiations. Israel asserts that Palestinian statehood should come as a result of mutual agreements that ensure security and recognition for both states.
7. What happens if the Security Council approves Palestine’s application?
• If the Security Council approves the application, it then proceeds to the General Assembly, where it requires a two-thirds majority vote for final approval. This step represents the international community’s collective endorsement of Palestine as a sovereign state.
These FAQs highlight the political and procedural complexities surrounding Palestine’s quest for full UN membership, reflecting the broader challenges of achieving peace and statehood within the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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