The United Kingdom will continue to work with all partners to implement Resolution 2803 and to forge a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, anchored in a two-state solution: UK statement at the UN Security Council
Source: gov.uk (2025-11-24)

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.

Last week, this Council adopted Resolution 2803, sending a powerful message of international support for President Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, and the diplomatic efforts of Qatar, Türkiye and Egypt.

This marks a pivotal moment after two years of horrendous suffering. And is crucial to cementing the ceasefire and charting a course towards lasting peace.

We urge all parties to abide by the ceasefire and we reiterate that Hamas must locate and hand over the bodies of the remaining three deceased hostages.

I will make three points.

First, Resolution 2803 must be implemented fully, effectively and in accordance with international law.

We need an International Stabilisation Force and trained Palestinian police deployed quickly to support the ceasefire and avoid a vacuum that Hamas could exploit.

Hamas should uphold their commitments under the 20-point plan to disarm and end their governance over Gaza.

Transitional arrangements must respect Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination and pave the way for a reformed Palestinian Authority to resume governance in Gaza.

Palestine must be run by Palestinians.

We look forward to the urgent formation of a Palestinian Committee alongside the Board of Peace.

Second, Resolution 2803 underscores the importance of the full resumption of humanitarian aid in Gaza.

The humanitarian situation remains catastrophic.

Heavy rains have deepened the misery, worsening shelter needs as winter closes in.

The United Nations has confirmed that over 1.5 million people are in urgent need of emergency shelter, yet Israel continues to restrict lifesaving aid.

Every crossing and route must be opened without delay, and essential items including shelter kits and medical supplies allowed in.

Last winter, at least eight newborns died of hypothermia in fewer than three weeks. Those deaths were preventable.

Israel must allow aid in now, without delay, and permit the United Nations, including UNRWA, as well as international non-governmental organisations, to operate freely and effectively.

Third, while the ceasefire in Gaza offers hope, stability in the West Bank is essential to any sustainable peace.

Yet we have seen further appalling incidents of settler violence during the olive harvest.

Last month, OCHA recorded more than 260 Israeli settler attacks, resulting in Palestinian casualties or damage to property.

This month, we have witnessed horrific arson attacks, including on a mosque, in the West Bank.

These unacceptable incidents must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable.

We also urge Israel to end its stranglehold on the Palestinian economy by releasing withheld clearance revenues, protecting correspondent banking arrangements, and facilitating shekel transfers from Palestinian banks.

And we reiterate our call on Israel to halt the expansion of illegal settlements, including the E1 plans.

This is a pivotal moment for the future of the region.

The United Kingdom will continue to work with all partners to implement Resolution 2803 and to forge a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, anchored in a two-state solution.