Cynthia Ezegwu
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza and Israel and demanded the unconditional release of hostages still held following the October 7, 2023, attacks.
In a statement posted on his official X account, Guterres recalled the large-scale assault on Israel by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups two years ago, describing it as an “abhorrent terror attack” that left countless civilians dead or injured.
“Two years ago today, Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups launched an abhorrent large-scale terror attack on Israel. Let us remember all those who were killed and suffered horrific violence. The horror of that dark day will be forever seared in our memories,” he said.
The UN chief expressed grave concern over the conditions of hostages still held, calling their treatment “deplorable” and urging all parties to end their suffering immediately.
He also highlighted a recent peace initiative proposed by former US President Joe Biden as a “pivotal opportunity” to resolve the conflict and called on all sides to engage seriously with the proposal to achieve a permanent ceasefire and credible political process.
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Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to facilitating peace and stressed that justice, security, and dignity must be upheld for all people in the region.
“The UN remains unwavering in its commitment to support peace. On this solemn anniversary, let us honour the memory of all the victims by working for the only path forward: a just and lasting peace, in which Israelis, Palestinians, and all the peoples of the region live side by side in security, dignity, and mutual respect,” he stated.
The October 7 attack marked one of the deadliest days in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, triggering a prolonged war and an ongoing humanitarian crisis that continues to affect thousands of civilians.