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United Nations

AJC Advocates for Key Issues at the United Nations General Assembly

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

As the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) convenes its 80th session, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) is leading the Jewish diplomatic outreach, tackling anti-Israel bias, antisemitism, and the Iranian threat. With key meetings and discussions taking place, AJC is advocating for several critical issues, including the release of Israeli hostages, opposition to unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, promotion of middle-east integration, countering campaigns against Israel's legitimacy, and addressing surging antisemitism.

Key Takeaways:

  • **Bring the Hostages Home**: AJC is advocating for the safe release of 48 Israeli hostages held by Hamas, with only about 20 believed to be alive, and urges UN members to take immediate action to bring the hostages home.
  • **Opposing Unilateral Recognition of a Palestinian State**: AJC condemns countries recognizing Palestinian statehood, noting that it rewards terrorism, deepens instability, and undermines serious diplomatic efforts.
  • **Promoting Middle East Integration**: AJC is working to seize opportunities for regional cooperation and integration, prioritizing security, stability, and economic prosperity.
  • **Countering Campaigns against Israel's Legitimacy**: AJC urges governments to reject the International Criminal Court's unfounded actions and refuses to enforce arrest warrants, and highlights Israel's actions are directed at Hamas, not Palestinian civilians.
  • **Countering Iran's Destabilizing Activities**: AJC is urging the universal designation of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity, and advocating for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) access to and continuous monitoring of declared and suspected nuclear sites.
  • **Addressing Surging Antisemitism**: AJC is urging governments to adopt the Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism, and promoting adoption of the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism
  • **Standing with Ukraine**: AJC remains committed to a strong, sustained, and unified international response to Russia's aggression in Ukraine, urging continued U.S. and allied military, economic, and humanitarian support for Ukraine.

Statistics:

  • 48 Israeli hostages are held by Hamas, with only about 20 believed to be alive.
  • 440.9 kg (972 lbs) of uranium enriched to 60 percent (near weapons-grade) remains uncertain.
  • The E3 launched a one-month process to reimpose "snapback sanctions" on Iran.
  • Over 800 entities worldwide have adopted the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism.
  • More than 3 years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
  • Iranian drones, missiles, and other equipment have been supplied to Russia to intensify attacks on Ukraine and civilian infrastructure.

Sources:

  • American Jewish Committee (AJC)
  • United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)
  • International Criminal Court (ICC)
  • International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
  • Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism
  • IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism

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