by Shari Ryness

The resolution, drafted by Jordan at the apparent instigation of fellow UNESCO members Palestine, condemned a series of Israeli developments in the Jewish capital, including the recent addition of a tramway, as well as building an elevator by the Western Wall, on the grounds of damaging the “integrity and authenticity” of the ancient city. Despite receiving 10 abstentions from the 21 member committee, as abstentions are not factored into the overall vote count, the resolution was passed by eight votes to three, with objections coming from close Israeli allies Germany, as well as Switzerland and Estonia. Arab States, such as Algeria, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar are thought to have supported the resolution…

Meanwhile, B’nai B’rith International President Allan J. Jacobs insisted the resolution was “just the latest example of the Palestinians exploiting their unilaterally-pursued elevated status within such bodies as UNESCO to push an anti-Israel agenda and to divert the UN from upholding its mission”…more.