UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, stressing the urgent need for a lasting political solution as the region approaches the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. Guterres highlighted the dire humanitarian situation and called on all parties to enhance their efforts in expanding humanitarian assistance and adhering to international law.
The Secretary-General condemned the 2023 attack by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals, and the abduction of 251 hostages. Simultaneously, he pointed to the severe impact on Palestinians in Gaza, where more than 74,200 people have reportedly been killed due to ongoing military actions by Israel, according to Gaza health authorities.
Reflecting on the ceasefire announced in October 2025, Guterres noted that while it had brought some respite, it fell short of providing lasting security, adequate humanitarian support, or a credible path toward peace and recovery. He emphasized the importance of ending the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians, urging renewed diplomatic efforts to establish conditions in which both communities can live securely, with dignity and protected rights.
Guterres’s call comes amid a backdrop of continued tensions and violence in the region, underscoring the challenging road toward a sustainable peace process. His appeal seeks to galvanize international and regional stakeholders to prioritize humanitarian needs and work towards a comprehensive political framework that ensures safety and stability for all affected populations.