The Secretary-General of the United Nations has urgently called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza. Antonio Guterres emphasized the need to cease hostilities in the war-torn Palestinian region, Israel, and the surrounding areas.
Guterres, marking the second anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel that triggered the conflict in Gaza, described the situation as a “humanitarian catastrophe of unimaginable proportions.” He reiterated his plea for the prompt release of hostages and urged an end to the suffering of all individuals affected by the ongoing violence.
Highlighting the need for a shift towards hope after two years of turmoil, Guterres emphasized the importance of halting hostilities in Gaza, Israel, and the region to prevent further civilian casualties and secure a peaceful future.
The call to action coincided with the commemoration of the deadly assault by a Hamas-led group on Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,219 lives, predominantly civilians, as reported by official Israeli sources. Furthermore, Palestinian militants took 251 individuals captive in Gaza, with 47 individuals still being held, including 25 reportedly deceased, according to Israeli military statements.
In response to the escalating conflict, Israel’s military operations in Gaza, involving airstrikes, ground incursions, and naval actions, have reportedly claimed the lives of at least 67,160 individuals, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory, figures endorsed by the United Nations.
As global pressure mounts for a resolution to the crisis, United States President Donald Trump unveiled a comprehensive 20-point plan advocating for a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The UN Secretary-General welcomed the proposal as a crucial opportunity to bring an end to the tragic conflict and underscored the necessity of a lasting ceasefire and a credible political process to avert further bloodshed and pave the way for lasting peace, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law.