News Desk : UN Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a powerful new appeal for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, warning that the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding there has reached “horrific proportions” and must not be forgotten amid global distractions.
Speaking at the UN Headquarters before departing for Spain, Guterres expressed deep concern that Palestinian suffering is being overshadowed by other regional conflicts, notably the recent Israel-Iran tensions.
“Families in Gaza have been displaced again and again — now confined to less than one-fifth of the territory,” Guterres said. “Even those shrinking safe zones are under attack. Bombs are falling on tents, families, and people with nowhere left to run.”
“The Search for Food Must Not Be a Death Sentence”
Citing catastrophic shortages of food, fuel, medicine, and shelter, the UN chief called the current situation the worst since the war began.
“The search for food must never be a death sentence,” he declared, underscoring the brutal reality faced by civilians simply trying to survive.
Guterres renewed his three key demands:
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An immediate ceasefire
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Unconditional release of all hostages
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Full, unhindered humanitarian access
He stressed that hospitals are rationing basic supplies, aid workers themselves are going hungry, and civilians are trapped in militarized zones with no escape.
“Trickle Must Become an Ocean”
The UN Secretary-General called for a massive scale-up in aid, saying current humanitarian deliveries are woefully insufficient.
“What’s needed now is a surge – the trickle must become an ocean,” he said, calling on Israel to uphold its obligations under international humanitarian law as the occupying power.
He added a clear message to world leaders:
“To those in power – enable our operations. To those with influence – use it.”
A recent UN convoy delivering medical supplies to Gaza, the first in months, was described by Guterres as a small step that only highlighted the enormous unmet need.
Protect Civilians, Not Endanger Them
The UN chief also cautioned against any aid delivery mechanisms that put civilians at risk, stressing that humanitarian operations must remain independent, impartial, and safe.
“We have a plan that worked during the last ceasefire. Let it work again.”
Push for Peace: Two-State Solution Is the Only Way
Guterres concluded his remarks by emphasizing the need for a political resolution:
“The only sustainable path forward is a return to the two-state solution. Human dignity, diplomacy, and justice must guide the way.”
Key Highlights:
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UN chief calls Gaza situation the worst since conflict began
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Reiterates demand for ceasefire, hostages release, and aid access
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Warns global community not to ignore Palestinian suffering
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Urges surge in humanitarian relief and protection of civilians
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Reaffirms two-state solution as the only sustainable peace path
