Explanation James Kariuki, UK Chargé d'Affaires to the
UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.
The United Kingdom voted in favour of this resolution, as a
critical staging post in the implementation of the Peace Plan for
Palestinians, Israelis, and the region – turning the page on two
devastating years of conflict, towards a lasting peace.
Last month, the international community came together in Sharm
El-Sheikh to deliver a strong message of support for President
Trump's 20-Point plan as well as the diplomatic efforts of Qatar,
Türkiye and Egypt.
This resolution takes that plan forward and has the support
of Arab and Islamic countries, which has been welcomed by the
Palestinian Authority.
We thank President Trump for his leadership and the US for
bringing this resolution forward.
It is right that we build on this momentum so an International
Stabilisation Force can be deployed quickly to support the
ceasefire and to avoid a vacuum being left which Hamas can
exploit.
We must also substantially step up our work to support the UN
humanitarian effort.
That requires opening all crossings and ensuring that aid
agencies and international NGOs can operate without obstruction.
We must help those in desperate need where they are throughout
Gaza. Humanitarian relief and reconstruction must take place
across all parts of the Gaza Strip and in a manner that prevents
further displacement.
We repeat our call for the urgent return of the remaining
deceased hostages.
The transitional arrangements that we embark upon today must be
implemented in accordance with international law, and respecting
Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination.
This should strengthen the unity of Gaza and the West Bank, and
empower Palestinian institutions to enable a reformed Palestinian
Authority to resume governance in Gaza.
We also look forward to the urgent formation of a Palestinian
Committee alongside the Board of Peace, as part of the
transitional arrangements.
The UK remains deeply concerned that deteriorating economic
conditions in the West Bank, alongside increasing settler
violence, could undermine progress in Gaza.
The UK will continue to work with the US and all our partners to
implement this resolution and to map a credible pathway to a just
and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike, based on a
two-state solution.
