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“As a result of this body’s utterly regrettable decision to abandon policy and principle, we will be considering all available next steps.”

The recognition allows Palestinians the ability to use the International Criminal Court — possibly paving the way for war crimes charges against Israel.

Baird said the resolution will set back any two-state negotiations in the Middle East.

“We do not believe that unilateral measures taken by one side can be justified by accusations of unilateralism directed at the other. That approach can only result in the steady erosion and collapse of the very foundations of a process which — while incomplete —holds the only realistic chance to bring about two peaceful, prosperous states living side-by-side as neighbours,” he said.

“This resolution will not advance the cause of peace or spur a return to negotiations. Will the Palestinian people be better off as a result? No. On the contrary, this unilateral step will harden positions and raise unrealistic expectations while doing nothing to improve the lives of the Palestinian people.”

Baird’s strong statement aimed at the UN is the latest in long line of clashes the Conservative government has had with the world body.

Baird delivered a scathing attack on the institution in his October address at the UN’s 67th General Assembly — saying the UN has failed to stop the bloody clash in Syria.

Other issues the Harper government has had with the UN include North Korea chairing the UN Conference on Disarmament, Libya being elected to the UN Human Rights Council and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s continued use of the world stage to threaten Israel.