Welsh Parliament backs calls for an immediate ceasefire
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, Alun Davies and Hefin David but was not voted upon.
Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth MS 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 Rhun ap Iorwerth MS 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.
Click here for the full results of the vote.