United Nations Photo

Philip John Parham, Deputy Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations, speaks to reporters following the General Assembly's adoption of a resolution endorsing the Report of the UN Fact-Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict, which was led by Judge Richard Goldstone. The Report accuses both Israel and Palestinian militants of war crimes during the three-week conflict in December 2008-January 2009, and urges the international community to stop impunity for violations of international law. It was referred to the Assembly by the Human Rights Council.

Adopted by a vote of 114 in favour, 18 against, and 44 abstentions, the General Assembly resolution calls on Israel and the Palestinian side to undertake independent and credible investigations to ensure accountability and justice. It also requests the Secretary-General to transmit the Goldstone Report to the Security Council.