The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) says it has noted the United Nations General Assembly vote on the status of Jerusalem where 128 countries voted in favour of protecting the Holy City.

Jamaica was among 35 countries that abstained from the vote without explanation.

The vote followed the strong stance by the UN Security Council earlier this week.

Shadow Minister on foreign affairs and foreign trade Lisa Hanna said the PNP recognised the significance of Jerusalem in the search for a permanent resolution to the situation in the Middle East. For that reason, she expressed disappointment at Jamaica’s abstention and said “we’ve deviated from our historical principled position.”

Hanna stated that Jamaica has over the years maintained: (1) the right of Israel to exist, (2) a negotiated political settlement, based on a two-state solution (3) the right to self-determination of the Palestinian People (4)The call for peaceful resolution of the conflict and minimising human suffering and loss of life, and the heightened role of the UN.

Hanna said that while the Opposition was reassured that the resolution was adopted, she reiterated the need for all to remain committed to a just, lasting and comprehensive agreement that recognises the Palestinian State within the pre-1967 borders and guarantees the security of Israel. Achieving such a solution, she said, “must be based on the implementation of confidence -building measures by both sides and the United Nations to remain resolute towards a solution.”