The United Nations has offered to monitor any cease-fire in Gaza, as Secretary-General António Guterres demands an end to the unprecedented death and destruction witnessed during the ongoing conflict. Guterres emphasized the urgent need for a cease-fire, highlighting the dire situation in Gaza where over 40,900 Palestinians have lost their lives, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
The conflict, triggered by Hamas' attacks in southern Israel, has led to vast destruction and the displacement of around 90% of Gaza’s population. Despite recent cease-fire talks, violence in the West Bank continues to escalate.
Guterres expressed readiness to support any cease-fire efforts, but acknowledged the challenges of securing Israel's acceptance of U.N. involvement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been critical of U.N. operations in Gaza and skeptical of peacekeeping missions, asserting Israel's ability to protect itself.
While advocating for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Guterres stressed that it is the only viable path to peace in the region. He warned against the consequences of failing to achieve equality and mutual respect between the two peoples, drawing parallels to South Africa's apartheid era.
Amidst global turmoil, Guterres highlighted the need for world leaders to address escalating conflicts, climate change impacts, and growing inequalities. He called for a recommitment to multilateral cooperation and reform of international institutions to meet the challenges of the modern world.
As the U.N. faces humanitarian crises with limited resources, Guterres urged leaders to align priorities with the pressing needs of humanity. The secretary-general's call for action comes as conflicts like the ongoing war in Ukraine show no signs of immediate resolution.
