As the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel approaches, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Emphasizing the need for a lasting political solution, Guterres urged all parties involved to expand humanitarian assistance and uphold international law.
The Secretary-General condemned the Hamas attack, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals and led to 251 individuals being taken hostage. Simultaneously, he drew attention to the significant loss of life, displacement, and destruction endured by Palestinians in Gaza. According to health authorities in Gaza, more than 74,200 Palestinians have been killed during the ongoing Israeli military campaign in the territory.
Guterres noted that while a ceasefire declared in October 2025 brought some relief to the region, it failed to deliver lasting security, adequate humanitarian aid, or a credible path toward recovery and peace. He called for renewed efforts to end the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians and to establish a framework in which both sides can live with security, dignity, and their rights protected.
The UN chief’s appeal highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving a sustainable resolution to the conflict and underscores the need for international cooperation to support peace efforts in the region. Guterres’ statement serves as a reminder of the human cost of the conflict and the urgent necessity for a comprehensive and lasting solution.