The Palestinian bid for full membership in the United Nations is set for a Security Council vote on Friday.
This move, opposed by Israel’s ally, the United States, is likely to be blocked by a U.S. veto.
The vote on a draft resolution recommending Palestinian membership will take place at 3 PM GMT.
The resolution requires nine votes in favour and no vetoes from the five permanent council members (US, Britain, France, Russia, and China) to pass.
While it may garner support from up to 13 members, a U.S. veto is anticipated.
The Palestinians, currently holding observer status, seek full membership to solidify statehood recognition.
However, the U.S. insists achieving an independent Palestinian state should occur through direct negotiations, not the U.N.
The Security Council historically supports a two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine existing peacefully within defined borders.
Palestinians claim the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, territories captured by Israel in 1967.
This push for membership coincides with ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank.
Israel’s U.N. ambassador sees Palestinian state recognition now as rewarding “terror” and bypassing agreed-upon negotiation channels.
A committee tasked with reviewing new member applications reached no unanimous recommendation due to “differing views” on whether Palestine meets all membership criteria.
The U.N. Charter stipulates membership for “peace-loving states” committed to its principles.
