United Nations Security Council Resolution 338

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United Nations Security Council Resolution 338 (1973) — Simple overview

United Nations Security Council Resolution 338 was adopted on October 22, 1973, during the Yom Kippur War. It called for a ceasefire and a path toward peace.

Three main provisions:
- A ceasefire: All firing and military activity should stop within 12 hours of adoption, in the positions then held.
- Implement 242: The ceasefire should be followed by full implementation of UNSC Resolution 242 in all its parts.
- Start peace talks: Negotiations between Israel and the Arab states should begin immediately after the ceasefire, under appropriate auspices, aiming for a just and durable peace in the Middle East.

Adoption and votes:
- It was adopted at the 1,747th Security Council meeting by 14 votes in favor, none against, with China abstaining.
- It reflected a joint United States–Soviet proposal and followed UNSC Resolution 242.

What happened next:
- The ceasefire took effect within 12 hours, but fighting continued after adoption.
- The Council quickly passed Resolution 339, and Resolution 340 ended the war soon after.

Binding or not:
- The resolution’s third clause uses the word “decides,” which some scholars say supports a binding peace process, while others see it as guidance rather than a binding UN mandate. The exact binding nature of 338 is still debated.

Impact:
- 338 helped set up the Geneva Conference in 1973 and contributed to the framework for peacemaking in the Middle East.
- It is often considered alongside Resolution 242 as part of the UN’s approach to resolving the Arab–Israeli conflict.