Guterres calls for an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza

On Sunday, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres renewed his call for an "immediate ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip.

“The war in Gaza is causing horrific human suffering - claiming lives, separating families and leaving huge numbers of people homeless, suffering from hunger and trauma,” Guterres said in a recorded speech broadcast during an international donor conference in Kuwait.

He added: "I reiterate my call for an immediate ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, the release of hostages, and an immediate increase in humanitarian aid."

He continued: "The ceasefire will only be the beginning. The road back from the devastation and trauma of this war will be long. The people of Gaza will need stronger and deeper partnerships for humanitarian assistance and long-term development, to get back on their feet and rebuild their lives."

The Israeli occupation forces have continued their aggression against the Gaza Strip by land, sea and air since October 7, resulting in the death of 34,971 citizens and the injury of 78,641 others, in addition to thousands of victims who are still under the rubble.