UNHCR passes four resolutions condemning Israel

16 April 2003
The UN Human Rights Commission (UNHCR) on 15 April agreed four resolutions condemning Israel's policies in the Occupied Territories. Meeting at its annual session in Geneva, the commission passed three resolutions by 51 votes to one - one, put forward by the EU, expressing concern at continued settlement activity and the plan to build a 'security fence' around the West Bank; another asserting the Palestinians' right of self-determination; and a third calling on Israel to cease repressive measures in the Golan Heights. The US opposed all three motions. The fourth resolution, presented by Arab and African states, called on Israel to end the mass killing of Palestinians. It passed by 33 votes to five, with Germany, Canada, Australia and Peru joining the US in opposition.

Israel on the same day completely sealed off Gaza and the West Bank for fear of attacks during the annual Passover holiday, which begins on the evening of 16 April. Last year a suicide bombing in the coastal resort of Netanya killed 29 people during the week-long festival.

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