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U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for the Gaza ceasefire to be made permanent and for large-scale humanitarian aid to be allowed into the territory, saying Palestinian civilians continue to endure “unbearable conditions.”
Guterres made the remarks in a written statement marking three years since the start of the conflict in Gaza in October 2023.
He said the attacks of October 2023 must “never be repeated,” adding that the conflict that followed had inflicted immense suffering on Palestinians in Gaza, including widespread loss of life, displacement and destruction.
Guterres said last year’s ceasefire had provided some relief but had not yet delivered security, sufficient humanitarian assistance or a credible path toward recovery and peace.
“Palestinian civilians continue to endure unbearable conditions,” he said.
Guterres urged all parties to fully meet their commitments and move to the next phase of the ceasefire.
“It is time for the ceasefire to become permanent. It is time to allow humanitarian aid on a large scale. And it is time for international law to be respected,” he said.
Guterres said a political path toward lasting peace across the region must be built and stressed that the U.N. remained committed to those goals.
“Let this anniversary be not only a year of mourning, but also a renewed demonstration of determination to build a different future,” he said.
Guterres said that future should allow Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace and security, with their rights, dignity and aspirations fulfilled.
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