Explanation of vote by Ambassador , UK Permanent
Representative to the UN, following the vote on the E10 draft UN
Security Council resolution on Gaza.
The United Kingdom voted in favour of this resolution today
because the intolerable situation in Gaza needs to end.
We are determined to see an end to this war, secure the release
of the hostages held by Hamas and alleviate the catastrophic
humanitarian situation for Palestinians in Gaza.
This Israeli Government's decisions to expand its military
operations in Gaza and severely restrict aid are unjustifiable,
disproportionate and counterproductive, and the UK completely
opposes them.
The Israeli Government says it has opened up aid access with its
new system.
But Palestinians, desperate to feed their families, have been
killed as they try to reach the very few aid sites that have been
permitted by Israel.
This is inhumane.
We support the UN's call for an immediate and independent
investigation into these events and for perpetrators to be held
accountable.
Israel needs to end its restrictions on aid now: let the UN and
humanitarians do their job to save lives, reduce suffering and
maintain dignity.
President, we regret that the Council was unable to reach
consensus today, but we remain committed to the vision of this
text.
We will continue to strongly support the efforts led by the
United States, Qatar and Egypt to secure an immediate ceasefire
in Gaza.
A ceasefire is the best way to secure the release of all
remaining hostages and achieve a long-term political solution.
And we repeat our condemnation of the heinous attack by Hamas on
7th October and demand that it release all the hostages
immediately and unconditionally. Hamas can have no role in the
future governance of Gaza.
A two-state solution is the only way to bring the long-lasting
peace, stability and security that both Israelis and Palestinians
deserve.
We welcome France and Saudi Arabia's leadership in chairing an
international conference later this month.
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