United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday it was “imperative” the newly struck Gaza ceasefire removes obstacles to aid deliveries as he welcomed the deal that includes a prisoner and hostage exchange.
Mr. Guterres also called for the “integrity” of Palestinian territory to be respected and for a push to ensure “unified” Palestinian leadership capable of securing peace.
LIVE: Qatar PM confirms Israel, Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal
“It is imperative that this ceasefire removes the significant security and political obstacles to delivering aid across Gaza so that we can support a major increase in urgent life-saving humanitarian support,” he said.
Mr. Guterres has led calls for a ceasefire in the deadly conflict and has advocated for an unhindered flow of aid to the war-torn territory, including that delivered by UN agencies.
“This deal is a critical first step, but we must mobilize all efforts to also advance broader goals, including the preservation of the unity, contiguity and integrity of the occupied Palestinian territory,” he said.
“Palestinian unity is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability, and I emphasize that unified Palestinian governance must remain a top priority.”
Mr. Guterres called on all sides in the conflict to seize the opportunity to secure “a better future for Palestinians, Israelis and the broader region, ending the occupation, and achieving a negotiated two-state solution.”
Published – January 16, 2025 01:13 am IST
