
Israel-Hamas conflict: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls for immediate ceasefire
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire to 'ease epic suffering, make the delivery of aid easier and safer and facilitate the release of hostages', in the Gaza Strip.
"Divisions are splintering societies and tensions threaten to boil over," he said.
"It is vital to be clear on principles" he added, starting with the protection of civilians," the UN chief said.
He also emphasized that the world cannot lose sight of the only realistic foundation for peace and stability in the Middle East - a two-State solution.
“Israelis must see their legitimate need for security materialized and Palestinians must see their legitimate need for an independent State realized, in line with UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements.”
Mr. Guterres said nothing could justify the deliberate killing and kidnapping of civilians, or the Hamas rocket launches against civilian targets, but he said it was important to recognize the attacks by Hamas "did not happen in a vacuum."
"The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation", he added.
"But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. And those appalling attacks cannot justify the punishment of the Palestinian people."
On day 17 of the Gaza-Israel crisis, UN humanitarians on Tuesday (October 24, 2023) pleaded for desperately needed fuel deliveries and other relief items to prevent the already dire situation in the enclave from worsening further.
This amounts to more than 400 children reportedly either killed or injured daily. Additionally, more than 30 Israeli children reportedly have lost their lives, and dozens remain in captivity within the Gaza Strip.
Top Headlines
-
News
Pakistan threatens to suspend all agreements with India, including Simla Pact, after New Delhi's actions
April 24, 2025
-
News
At least 27 killed in Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, Amit Shah reaches Srinagar
April 22, 2025
-
News
Narendra Modi, Elon Musk discuss Indo-US tech collaboration
April 18, 2025
-
News
White House says China to face 245% tariff
April 16, 2025
-
News
Donald Trump's latest tariff hike on Beijing brings additional rate on some Chinese goods to 145 pct: White House
April 10, 2025
-
News
Flight carrying 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana departs US, to land in Delhi tomorrow
April 09, 2025
-
News
After end of deadline, White House confirms 104 percent tariffs on China: Reports
April 08, 2025
-
News
PM Modi to inaugurate new Pamban Rail Bridge, connecting Rameswaram to mainland, today
April 06, 2025
-
News
Thousands hit streets across US to protest against Donald Trump's divisive policies
April 06, 2025
-
News
Avoid rhetoric that vitiates environment: Modi urges Yunus during Bangkok meeting
April 04, 2025