Israel pulls out of race for UN Security Council

UNITED NATIONS, May 4 (Xinhua) -- Israel on Friday withdrew from a race for a seat on the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member.

"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," said the Israeli mission to the United Nations in a press statement.

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

Israel's withdrawal means that Belgium and Germany will be unchallenged in their bids for the two Security Council elected seats for 2019-2020 allocated for Western Europe and Other regions. The two countries still need to receive at least two-thirds of votes at the General Assembly in June elections.

The UN Security Council has 15 members -- five permanent members and 10 non-permanent members. The 10 non-permanent members are elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms, with five replaced each year.

If elected, Belgium and Germany will replace the Netherlands and Sweden. Enditem