UN Security Council vote on a ceasefire in Gaza

This House notes with concern the Government’s position on the UN Security Council Resolution vote on a ceasefire in Gaza on 8 December 2023; further notes that the resolution was presented by a non-permanent member, the United Arab Emirates, following a letter sent by the UN General Secretary, Antonio Guterres, to the Security Council invoking Article 99 of the UN Charter; also notes that Article 99 is initiated when the General Secretary believes events threaten the maintenance of international peace and security; understands that Security Council members Albania, Brazil, Ecuador, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Switzerland, the United Arab Estimates, China, France and Russia all supported the Ceasefire Resolution; further understands that the US voted against the resolution and that the UK abstained; expresses concern that the Government’s current position leaves the UK isolated internationally, causing irreparable reputational damage; and calls on the Government to fully engage with international efforts to bring the terrible war in Gaza to an end.