Guterres Calls for Cessation of Violence as Thousands Killed in Israel-Hamas Conflict

On Monday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate cessation of attacks in Israel and Gaza.

Guterres described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as already “extremely dire” before the latest hostilities.

"I am deeply alarmed by reports of over 500 Palestinians -- including women and children -- killed in Gaza and over 3,000 injured. Unfortunately, these numbers are rising by the minute as Israeli operations continue," the UN chief

He noted that medical equipment, food, fuel, and other humanitarian supplies are now “desperately” needed in Gaza, which is home to 2.3 million people.

"An entry of essential supplies into Gaza must be facilitated, and the UN will continue efforts to provide humanitarian aid to respond to these needs," he said.

He urged all sides and relevant parties to allow the United Nations access to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians trapped and helpless in Gaza.