United Nations Security Council Resolution 338

Yom Kippur War map

United Nations Security Council Resolution 338 was adopted on 22 October 1973, during the Yom Kippur War. The resolution called for an immediate ceasefire and the start of negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting peace in the Middle East.

Background

The Yom Kippur War, also known as the October War, began on 6 October 1973 when Egypt and Syria launched a coordinated attack against Israel on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. The conflict drew in global powers, with the United States and the Soviet Union providing support to their respective allies.

Provisions

Resolution 338 called for:

1. An immediate ceasefire and cessation of all military activities.
2. The implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 242, which called for the withdrawal of Israeli armed forces from territories occupied in the Six-Day War and the recognition of every state in the area to live in peace within secure and recognized boundaries.
3. The start of negotiations between the parties concerned under appropriate auspices aimed at establishing a just and durable peace in the Middle East.

Adoption

The resolution was adopted at the 1747th meeting of the United Nations Security Council with 14 votes in favor, none against, and no abstentions. China did not participate in the voting.

Aftermath

The adoption of Resolution 338 led to a temporary ceasefire, although hostilities resumed shortly thereafter. It laid the groundwork for further negotiations, including the Geneva Conference (1973), and subsequent resolutions such as United Nations Security Council Resolution 339.

See also

• United Nations Security Council Resolution 242
• Yom Kippur War
• Six-Day War
• Geneva Conference (1973)
• Middle East peace process