United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has renewed calls for an end to the war in Gaza, urging all parties to stop the bloodshed and prioritize the lives of civilians, two years after the devastating Hamas attack on Israel.
Marking the anniversary of the October 7, 2023 assault, Guterres expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence, humanitarian crisis, and the continued captivity of hostages in Gaza.
In a post on his verified X handle, the UN chief demanded the “unconditional and immediate” release of all hostages, warning that the conflict has spiraled into “a humanitarian catastrophe on a scale that defies comprehension.”
“I have said it time and again, and I am repeating it today with even greater urgency: release the hostages, unconditionally and immediately,” he wrote. “End the suffering for all.”
Guterres appealed for a complete cessation of hostilities, urging both Israel and Hamas to halt actions that further endanger civilians. “Put an end to the hostilities in Gaza, Israel, and the region now. Stop making civilians pay with their lives and their futures,” he stated.
He also endorsed recent diplomatic efforts, referencing a peace proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which he described as “an opportunity that must be seized” to achieve a permanent ceasefire and launch a credible political process toward peace.
Reaffirming the United Nations’ commitment to mediating the conflict, Guterres called for unity and remembrance on the solemn anniversary.
“The UN remains unwavering in its commitment to support peace,” he said. “Let us honour the memory of all victims by working for the only path forward — a just and lasting peace in which Israelis, Palestinians, and all peoples of the region live side by side in security, dignity, and mutual respect.”
