Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima took a firm stance in support of Palestinian independence during his address at the 2024 United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
His remarks came amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a devastating assault on Israel.
In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted extensive aerial strikes and ground operations in Gaza. By September 2024, reports indicated that the conflict had resulted in the deaths of 41,431 Palestinians and 1,706 Israelis, further heightening tensions.
Speaking at the 79th session of the General Assembly, Shettima underscored the importance of addressing the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in discussions on war, peace, and humanitarian efforts. “We cannot talk about war and peace, conflicts and reconciliation, or humanitarian needs today without considering the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” he told global leaders.
Shettima emphasized the right of Palestinians to freedom and independence. He condemned the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza and other Palestinian territories, stating, “What we are witnessing today is a clear failure by the international community to uphold the principles and aspirations of the United Nations—eliminating inequality, violence, and domination of one people over another. Justice and freedom must be prioritized.”
The Nigerian vice president urged world leaders to acknowledge Palestinian rights, stressing that their struggle for independence and recognized territories is grounded in international law and should not be ignored.
