BEIJING: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has made a compelling plea for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Speaking at an economic forum in China, Guterres addressed the profound humanitarian concerns surrounding the crisis and emphasized the need for an urgent resolution.
Guterres began by denouncing the attacks launched by Hamas on October 7. He acknowledged the deep-seated grievances of the Palestinian people, arising from 56 years of occupation.
The UN Chief’s appeal included two critical humanitarian requests. Firstly, he called on Hamas for the “immediate and unconditional release of hostages.”
Secondly, Guterres urged Israel to “immediately allow unrestricted access of humanitarian aid.” This access is vital for addressing the fundamental needs of the people in Gaza, a population predominantly comprised of women and children.
Guterres expressed his deep dismay at a devastating explosion that rocked a hospital in Gaza, causing the loss of hundreds of lives. The responsibility for this tragedy has been a subject of dispute, with Hamas attributing it to Israel.
In addition, the UN Chief condemned an attack on a school managed by the UN in a Gaza refugee camp, which resulted in the tragic loss of six lives.
Guterres emphasized the urgency of a humanitarian ceasefire, appealing to the international community to take immediate action. He highlighted that the fate of the entire region hangs in the balance, as countless lives are impacted by the ongoing conflict.
