New York, 10 October 2023 (TDI): UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has passionately called for an immediate end to the relentless cycle of bloodshed, hatred, and polarization engulfing the Middle East.
In a devastating assault, Hamas launched its deadliest attack on Israel in 50 years, resulting in over 900 Israeli casualties, as the Israel Defense Forces reported.
Simultaneously, the Palestinian Health Ministry confirmed at least 687 casualties in Gaza and the West Bank, marking a tragic escalation in the conflict.
Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza in response to a surprise offensive by Hamas. Israeli ministers imposed a complete siege, cutting off essential supplies for Gaza’s two million residents, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Antonio Guterres strongly condemns the ongoing attacks by Hamas and others on Israeli communities near Gaza, resulting in over 800 deaths and 2,500 injuries. The numbers are expected to increase, with ongoing attacks and missing individuals.
Disturbingly, armed groups have reportedly captured over a hundred Israelis, including vulnerable populations.
UN Secretary-General Guterres acknowledges Palestinian grievances but condemns terror acts, emphasizing nothing justifies civilian harm. He urges an immediate halt to attacks and the release of all hostages, emphasizing the need for peace.
UN highlighted the alarming toll with over 500 Palestinians, including women and children, killed and 3,000 injured due to Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. Guterres stressed the importance of Israeli military operations adhering to international humanitarian law while acknowledging Israel’s security concerns.
Amidst the Israel Hamas crisis, the UN emphasizes the need to protect civilians and their infrastructure. Disturbing reports reveal Israeli strikes on health facilities, residential buildings, and mosques in Gaza.
Over 137,000 people seek refuge in United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) shelters, with a deep concern over Israel’s announced total siege on Gaza, cutting off essential supplies like electricity, food, and fuel.
In response to the Israel-Hamas Crisis, Antonio Guterres urge all parties to grant UN access for urgent aid to trapped Palestinians in Gaza. International support is crucial.
Also Read: World’s response to recent developments in Israel-Palestine Crisis
UN leaders are engaging regional leaders, emphasizing the need to prevent wider conflict. It’s essential to avoid irreversible actions that empower extremists, considering the longstanding conflict and lack of political resolution.
In addressing the Israel-Hamas Crisis, the imperative lies in meeting Israel’s security needs and providing Palestinians with a viable state.
Emphasizing the significance of a negotiated peace, the two-state solution aligns with UN resolutions and international law, promising lasting stability for both Palestinians and Israelis in the Middle East.
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