Ceasefire in Gaza crucial to avert escalation, warns UN Chief

UNITED NATIONS: United Nations, Secretary General António Guterres has underscored the imperative for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, marking over 100 days of escalating conflict. In a statement, he cautioned against the continuation of hostilities, stressing the heightened risk of escalation and miscalculation.

Calling for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire,” Guterres highlighted the necessity of ensuring a continuous flow of emergency aid and facilitating the release of prisoners.

He decried the extensive destruction and unprecedented civilian casualties inflicted by Israeli forces during the 100-day onslaught on Gaza, with a majority of the victims being women and children. The Secretary General firmly asserted that the collective punishment of the Palestinian people had no justification.

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Expressing grave concern over daily exchanges of fire across the Blue Line, the border demarcation between Israel and Lebanon, Guterres warned against potential broader escalation that could impact regional stability.

Referring to recent clashes sparked by an Israeli drone strike targeting Hamas’s deputy chief across the Blue Line, Guterres reported tens of thousands displaced in northern Israel and southern Lebanon, with humanitarian access in Lebanon constrained.

Condemning raids by Hamas on October 7, Guterres called for the immediate and unconditional release of Israeli prisoners and a thorough investigation into alleged sexual violence. The Secretary General highlighted the challenges faced by aid workers due to ongoing Israeli bombardment and restrictions at the Gaza border, emphasizing that delivering humanitarian aid under such conditions endangers both recipients and providers.

A grim revelation came with Guterres reporting that, since October 7, 152 UN staff members have lost their lives in Gaza, marking the largest single loss of life in UN history. The urgent plea for a ceasefire underscores the critical need to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent further escalation in the troubled region.