Israel pulls out of race for seat on UN Security Council

Israel has pulled out of a race for a seat on the UN Security Council.

Israel was in a three-way contest with Germany and Belgium for two seats on the UN’s most powerful body, starting in January.

Security Council members are elected by the 193-member General Assembly and Israel faced an uphill struggle in winning a seat.

Israel’s UN Mission said in a statement on Friday that “after consulting with our partners, including our good friends, the State of Israel has decided to postpone its candidacy for a seat on the Security Council”.

“It was decided that we will continue to act with our allies to allow for Israel to realise its right for full participation and inclusion in decision-making processes at the UN,” the statement said.