United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has once again appealed for an immediate end to the ongoing Gaza conflict, warning that civilians should not continue to bear the burden of war. His remarks came on the second anniversary of the deadly October 7, 2023, Hamas assault on Israel, which ignited the devastating conflict that has since claimed thousands of lives.Guterres stressed that the humanitarian situation has reached catastrophic levels, with families torn apart, homes reduced to rubble, and essential services collapsing under relentless bombardment. He called on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilians above political and military goals. "Stop making civilians pay with their lives and their futures," he urged, adding that the human suffering must no longer be ignored.
A central part of his appeal focused on the plight of hostages still held in Gaza. "Release the hostages, unconditionally and immediately," Guterres wrote on X, describing their continued captivity as unacceptable and inhumane. Their release, he said, would represent a significant step toward de-escalation and reconciliation.
The UN chief also highlighted a recent peace initiative proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump as a potential framework to end the conflict. He encouraged all stakeholders to engage with the plan constructively, emphasizing that political dialogue remains the only viable path to lasting peace.
Guterres reiterated the United Nations' readiness to facilitate negotiations and support a permanent ceasefire. He emphasized that only a credible political process can end the cycle of violence and pave the way for a future based on coexistence and mutual respect.
"As we mark this painful anniversary," he concluded, "let us honour the victims by choosing peace over vengeance and hope over despair."
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