The Senedd (Welsh Parliament) has called for an immediate
ceasefire in Gaza and Israel.
Senedd Members had today (Wednesday 8th November)
been debating a motion tabled by Plaid Cymru that called
for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel to “end the
appalling attacks on innocent civilians”.
The motion passed 24 in favour, 19 against, with 13 abstentions.
The Welsh Government abstained but Labour backbench members were
given a free vote.
An amendment had also been tabled by the Conservative Senedd
Group, and co-submitted by two Labour MSes, and but was not voted upon.
Plaid Cymru Leader said the Senedd has
taken a stand “in the cause of humanity”.
Thanking his fellow Senedd members from Labour and the Liberal
Democrats who voted in favour of the motion, Mr ap Iorwerth said
that Wales had made a “powerful statement for peace”.
Speaking after the debate, Plaid Cymru Leader said,
“We are at our best as parliamentarians when we speak with a
united voice. Sadly, for too many today, we are also a voice for
the voiceless.
“It is in that spirit that we sought cross party support for this
motion with a clear and unequivocal call for a ceasefire from
both sides as a precursor to peace talks, an immediate and
lasting end to the violence and death of civilians in Israel and
Palestine, and a global effort to ease the humanitarian suffering
in Gaza.
“I am proud that tonight, our Senedd, representing the people of
our nation, has taken a stand in the cause of humanity.
“I give my heartfelt thanks to all those from across the
political parties, including Labour and Liberal Democrat members,
who supported the motion today.
“Whilst some will doubt the strength of a solitary parliament’s
call for a ceasefire, Wales can, in this hour of unimaginable
horror, be a small nation making a powerful statement for peace.
