STATES Members have voted for an amended proposal calling for an “immediate suspension of hostilities” in Gaza.
A proposition asking for a permanent ceasefire in the conflict was brought to the Assembly by backbencher Deputy Montfort Tadier, who argued that politicians should take a stance in the ongoing Israel-Gaza war.
But in the States on Tuesday, Members unanimously voted for a proposition which had been heavily amended by External Relations Minister Ian Gorst.
Summing up ahead of the final vote, Deputy Tadier said many of the better parts of the proposition had been taken out.
Changes included swapping a “permanent ceasefire” for an “immediate suspension of hostilities”, and removing references to “potential acts of genocide”.
The use of the word “genocide” in the original proposition was something that Deputy Gorst said he wanted to avoid, adding that such terminology made some people feel uncomfortable and others intimidated.
Reform Jersey leader Deputy Sam Mézec said he strongly opposed the amendment, believing that it watered down the original proposal.
Deputy Gorst also removed reference to a “two-state solution” in his amendment, which he said had been problematic “for a number of Islanders”.
International Development Minister Carolyn Labey said that the situation in Gaza was “appalling”.
She added: “Of course a ceasefire is required. Hostages must be released and resolution found.”
