UN Secretary-General Demands Immediate End To 'Horror' In Gaza

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned the air strikes on Rafah, which have targeted tents sheltering displaced individuals. Deeply affected by the images of the casualties, including many children, he stated, "the horror and suffering must stop immediately." This statement was attributed to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General.

Guterres expressed grief for the over 36,000 Palestinians and approximately 1,500 Israelis killed in the ongoing violence. He highlighted "the gruesome acts of terror perpetrated by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups in Israel on 7th October 2023, the devastating Israeli assault on Gaza, and the continued indiscriminate rocket launches towards Israel."

The Secretary-General noted that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is now exacerbated by the looming threat of a man-made famine. He reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages. Guterres also referenced recent orders from the International Court of Justice, emphasizing their binding nature.

He stated, "The Israeli authorities must allow, facilitate and enable the immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian supplies to those in need. All crossing points must be open in line with Security Council resolution 2720 (2023)."

Guterres stressed that humanitarian organisations must have full, rapid, safe, and unhindered access to reach all civilians in need across Gaza. He added, "We must work expeditiously to restore security, dignity and hope for the affected population."

This effort will require urgent support to strengthen the new Palestinian Government and its institutions. This includes preparing the Palestinian Authority to reassume its responsibilities in Gaza. Guterres emphasized the need for tangible steps to create a political horizon.

Call for Political Engagement

The devastation of the past seven months has underscored the necessity for Israelis, Palestinians, regional states, and the international community to take urgent steps towards re-engaging on a political path to achieve a two-state solution. The UN will continue to support all such efforts.

International Court of Justice Decision

The International Court of Justice issued a decision on 24th May, demanding that Israel immediately halt its military offensive in Rafah. The court's decision also called for an end to any actions in southern Gaza that could create living conditions leading to the destruction of the Palestinian civilian population.

With inputs from WAM