Both parties must fulfil their commitments under Resolution 2803 and refrain from actions that undermine peace: UK statement at the UN Security Council
The UK urged all parties to uphold commitments under UNSC Resolution 2803, highlighting the need for phased IDF withdrawal, Hamas disarmament, and Palestinian-led governance reforms, while calling for unrestricted humanitarian aid access to Gaza.
The UK Permanent Representative to the UN reiterated the importance of adhering to Resolution 2803, which endorses a 20-point plan for Gaza, emphasizing that progress depends on the actions of all parties involved. Israel is called upon to fulfill its commitments, including a phased withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza, while Hamas must decommission its weapons and terror infrastructure. A credible Palestinian-led transition of governance and security across Gaza is also required, with the Palestinian Authority urged to implement necessary reforms ahead of planned elections.
The UK highlighted the urgent need for the full resumption of humanitarian aid into Gaza, citing severe food insecurity affecting 59% of the population and the displacement of 1.9 million Palestinians. It called on Israel to lift excessive aid restrictions, ensure predictable and scaled entry of all aid including fuel, open all crossings, and review the dual-use list to facilitate vital supplies. Hamas was urged to cease obstructing humanitarian operations, following reported disruptions to UN aid deliveries in July, including assaults on truck drivers.
The UK expressed deep concern over recent violations of UN premises, including the forcible entry and reported seizure of UNRWA’s Kalandia Training Centre in Jerusalem. It stressed the need for the UN and NGOs to operate safely and at scale in accordance with international humanitarian law, and for accountability where standards are not met. The UK welcomed Israel’s decision to launch a criminal investigation into the killing of Hind Rajab and her family but condemned the decision not to pursue criminal action over the World Central Kitchen convoy strikes in April 2024, which killed seven staff, including three British nationals.
The UK reiterated its position that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal under UNSC Resolution 2334 and called on Israel to immediately retract construction tenders for the E1 settlement project. It emphasized that such unilateral actions undermine efforts toward peace and stability in the region.