Yasser Arafat Addresses UN General Assembly
December 13th, 1988
December 13th, 1988
How Long Ago?
36 years, 3 months, 1 day ago
Location
Geneva, Switzerland
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Yasser Arafat
Links & References
- Geneva
- Yasser Arafat
- United Nations General Assembly
- Travel visa
- Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization
Tags
Yasser Arafat Addresses UN General Assembly
Yasser Arafat delivered a speech at a UN session in Geneva after being denied entry to the US for a similar event in New York. Arafat's address was significant as it highlighted the Palestinian struggle and called for international recognition of Palestinian rights. The speech aimed to garner support for a sovereign Palestinian state and showcased Arafat's role as the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) chairman.
Arafat addressed the UN after visa denial.
His speech called for Palestinian self-determination.
The PLO gained non-member observer status.
The event marked a shift in global attitudes.
What Happened?
Yasser Arafat, the Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), addressed the United Nations General Assembly's special session in Geneva after the United States denied him a visa to enter New York for a scheduled address. This event was pivotal as Arafat took the opportunity to articulate the plight of the Palestinian people and to advocate for their right to self-determination. In his speech, Arafat emphasized the necessity of international recognition for Palestinian statehood and disputed claims that the Palestinian cause could be sidelined in global dialogues regarding peace in the Middle East.
Arafat's speech resonated with many nations, as he sought to shift perceptions of Palestinian nationalism and resilience against the backdrop of decades of conflict and displacement. The UN General Assembly was an essential platform for Arafat, providing him with a space to rally international support. The event also illustrated the growing global awareness and sympathy towards the Palestinian issue during the late 20th century. Arafat's address included a historic declaration of independence, marking a significant moment in the quest for a Palestinian state.
After delivering his speech, the General Assembly voted to grant the PLO non-member observer status. This recognition helped legitimize the PLO in international forums and brought increasing diplomatic engagement for Palestinian autonomy. The event underscored the complexity of U.S. foreign policy, as Arafat's visit was not only a call for Palestinian rights but also posed challenges to the prevailing U.S. alignment in the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape.
Why Does it Matter?
The speech by Yasser Arafat at the UN General Assembly was pivotal in elevating the Palestinian issue on the global stage. It shifted perceptions of the PLO and solidified its role as a representative of the Palestinian people, fostering future diplomatic engagements. This moment encouraged a growing recognition of the Palestinian quest for statehood and influenced subsequent international discussions on Middle Eastern peace.
Discover More Historic Events from December 13th
EU Member States Sign Treaty of Lisbon
The Treaty of Lisbon was signed by EU member states at a pivotal moment for the European Union. This treaty aimed to enhance the efficiency and democratic legitimacy of the Union. It amended both the Treaty of Rome and the Maastricht Treaty, signing a new chapter in European integration. Notably, the treaty introduced the provision for a formal President of the European Council and the role of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
Continue ReadingSaddam Hussein Captured in Tikrit
Former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was captured in a raid by U.S. forces near his hometown of Tikrit. The operation, dubbed Operation Red Dawn, was based on intelligence regarding Hussein's whereabouts. His capture came after a lengthy search following the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in March 2003, which aimed to remove his regime and combat the perceived threat of weapons of mass destruction.
Continue ReadingEU Membership Announcement for 10 Nations
In a significant diplomatic announcement, the European Union stated that Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia would officially become members on May 1, 2004. This decision marked a major step in the eastward expansion of the EU following the end of the Cold War. The inclusion of these countries not only aimed at enhancing regional stability but also promoted political reforms and economic growth in the applicant states. This announcement was celebrated across the candidate countries, with citizens hopeful for a brighter future within the EU framework.
Continue ReadingTerrorist Attack on Indian Parliament Building
A coordinated attack occurred at the Sansad Bhavan, where five armed terrorists stormed the premises, resulting in the deaths of twelve individuals. Security forces engaged the attackers in a gunbattle, ultimately killing all the terrorists. The motive behind the attack was linked to longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan, significantly heightening security measures across the nation.
Continue ReadingBanat Air Flight 166 crashes near Verona Airport
Banat Air Flight 166, a cargo flight operated by Banat Air, crashed near Verona Villafranca Airport in Italy, resulting in the deaths of all 49 individuals on board. The aircraft, which was a McDonnell Douglas MD-81, encountered difficulties during its landing approach and ultimately lost control, leading to the tragic accident. The exact reasons for the crash involved a combination of mechanical failure and adverse weather conditions, having significant implications for aviation safety protocols in the region.
Continue ReadingFlagship Airlines Flight 3379 Crashes Near Airport
Flagship Airlines Flight 3379 was a scheduled flight that tragically went down in Morrisville, North Carolina, close to the Raleigh–Durham International Airport. The aircraft, a Fairchild Metroliner, encountered severe weather conditions just before its landing, leading to a devastating crash that resulted in the loss of 15 lives onboard. The flight was carrying a total of 19 people when it experienced difficulties during approach, eventually striking a wooded area, which resulted in a complete destruction of the aircraft.
Continue Reading