UN Chief Calls For Immediate Humanitarian Ceasefire In Israel-Gaza Conflict

In a powerful plea for peace, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the midst of the Israel-Gaza war.

Speaking from Beijing, his call for an end to the ongoing violence came after the tragic bombing of the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza.

Guterres, in a stern tone, emphasized that Hamas attacks should not be used to justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. 

Guterres, while addressing an audience gathered to commemorate 10 years of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), issued what he referred to as "two urgent humanitarian appeals."

The first plea was directed at Hamas, urging them to immediately and unconditionally release those they are holding captive.

The second appeal was aimed at Israel, with Guterres insisting on the immediate, unrestricted access of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He stressed that a humanitarian ceasefire was crucial for both of these appeals to be realized.

Guterres underscored the gravity of the situation by stating, "Too many lives and the fate of the entire region hang in the balance."

Following the heinous attack on the Gaza hospital, Palestinian health authorities reported a tragic toll of at least 500 lives lost.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from world leaders and human rights organizations. Israel, however, has denied any responsibility.