The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has expressed his growing concern over the situation in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory, in the context of the imminent end of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages. In a statement issued by his Spokesperson’s Office, Guterres noted that the past six weeks of calm have provided a “fragile but vital respite,” easing tensions in both Palestinian and Israeli communities.
During this period without hostilities, thousands of trucks carrying humanitarian aid have entered Gaza, benefiting virtually the entire population of the Strip. However, Guterres has issued an urgent call to all parties involved to avoid a resumption of hostilities, warning that this could be catastrophic for the region. “It is imperative to make every effort to prevent a return to violence,” the Secretary-General said.
Guterres urged for dialogues to begin and to progress to the next phase of the agreement, emphasizing that a permanent ceasefire and the release of all hostages are crucial steps to prevent an escalation of violence that could have devastating consequences for the civilian population. He also reiterated the need for a “dignified, immediate, and unconditional” release of the hostages, stressing that all actors must ensure a humane treatment to those under their custody.
Furthermore, the Secretary-General emphasized the importance of ensuring that humanitarian aid continues to flow unimpeded to Gaza, with adequate funding and conditions that ensure the safety of civilians and humanitarian workers. Guterres also highlighted the “alarming situation” in the occupied West Bank and paid particular attention to the upcoming month of Ramadan, urging for it to be a time of peace and reflection.
In his message, he underscored the need for all parties to increase their efforts to put an end to any form of violence, reaffirming that the United Nations stands ready to support any initiative aimed at achieving this goal.
via: MiMub in Spanish
