Resolution 338

Definition

Resolution 338 is a United Nations Security Council resolution passed on October 22, 1973, calling for a ceasefire in the ongoing Yom Kippur War between Israel and a coalition of Arab states led by Egypt and Syria. This resolution reaffirmed the principles set forth in Resolution 242, emphasizing the need for negotiations to establish a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. It marked a significant step toward de-escalation in the region following the conflict and laid the groundwork for future peace talks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Resolution 338 was adopted unanimously by the UN Security Council, reflecting a collective international call for peace following the Yom Kippur War.
2. The resolution specifically called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to start negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting peace in the Middle East.
3. It reinforced the principles laid out in Resolution 242, particularly regarding land-for-peace negotiations and respect for territorial sovereignty.
4. Following the adoption of Resolution 338, indirect negotiations began between Israel and Egypt, leading to the Camp David Accords in 1978.
5. The resolution highlighted the role of the United Nations as a mediator in conflicts and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in resolving disputes.

Review Questions

• How did Resolution 338 contribute to the ceasefire in the Yom Kippur War, and what were its immediate effects?
  • Resolution 338 played a crucial role in establishing an immediate ceasefire after days of intense conflict during the Yom Kippur War. By calling for a halt to hostilities and urging all parties to enter negotiations for peace, it aimed to prevent further loss of life and stabilize the situation. The resolution's influence led to de-escalation efforts by both Israel and Arab nations, creating an opening for diplomatic discussions that would follow.
• Discuss how Resolution 338 relates to previous UN resolutions and its impact on future peace processes in the Middle East.
  • Resolution 338 is closely linked to Resolution 242, which established key principles for peace negotiations following the Six-Day War. Both resolutions emphasize land-for-peace initiatives, but Resolution 338 was pivotal as it addressed immediate conflict cessation. Its impact can be seen in subsequent peace processes, notably paving the way for future agreements such as the Camp David Accords, highlighting its importance as a foundation for diplomatic efforts in resolving Middle Eastern conflicts.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of Resolution 338 as a tool for achieving lasting peace in the Middle East, considering subsequent events.
  • While Resolution 338 was initially effective in ceasing hostilities during the Yom Kippur War and initiating negotiations, its long-term success in achieving lasting peace has been mixed. The resolution established frameworks for dialogue but did not resolve underlying tensions or territorial disputes. Subsequent conflicts and unrest indicate that while it laid important groundwork, without sustained commitment from involved parties and consistent international support, achieving comprehensive peace remains a challenging endeavor.

Related terms

Yom Kippur War:

A conflict that began on October 6, 1973, when Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur, leading to intense fighting that lasted until a ceasefire was brokered.

UN Security Council:

A principal organ of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security, with the authority to make binding resolutions on member states.

Resolution 242:

A United Nations Security Council resolution adopted in November 1967, which called for the withdrawal of Israeli armed forces from territories occupied during the Six-Day War and affirmed the right of all states in the area to live in peace.