New York: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release all Israeli hostages held in Gaza, urging an end to the ongoing hostilities between Israel, Gaza, and across the wider region as the devastating war enters its second anniversary.
In a statement marking two years since the outbreak of the Gaza war on October 7, 2023, Guterres described the situation as an “unimaginable human tragedy, emphasizing that the conflict must end without further delay.
This war has brought unspeakable suffering to civilians’ men, women, and children who continue to pay the price with their lives and futures, he said. The fighting in Gaza, Israel, and the region must stop. After two years of trauma, it is time to choose hope over despair.
Guterres welcomed the recent peace initiative proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it a valuable opportunity that must not be wasted to end the humanitarian catastrophe.
He underscored that a durable ceasefire and a credible political process are essential to halt further bloodshed and pave the way for lasting peace and regional stability.
The Secretary-General reiterated the UN’s firm stance that all parties must uphold international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and work toward a two-state solution as the only path to a just and sustainable peace.
It is worth noting that on September 29, President Trump unveiled a 20-point peace plan that includes the release of Israeli hostages, an immediate ceasefire, and the disarmament of Hamas, aiming to end one of the most destructive conflicts of the century.
Guterres concluded his statement by urging the global community to act decisively for peace, saying that the world cannot afford another year of suffering and destruction in Gaza.