Immediate Ceasefire Needed to Stop Gaza’s Suffering says UN Officials

Assistant Secretary-General for Europe in the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Miroslav Jenca stressed that the Israeli government's recent decision regarding the Gaza Strip threatens to ignite another horrific chapter in this conflict, with potential consequences beyond Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory.

He told an emergency Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East that the only way to end the massive humanitarian suffering in Gaza is through a complete, immediate, and permanent ceasefire, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

The UN official called on Israel to abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law and allow the rapid, safe, and unhindered delivery of large-scale humanitarian aid to the population. He also stressed the need to protect civilians, including humanitarian workers, seeking assistance.

"There is no military solution to the armed conflict in Gaza or the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. There will be no sustainable solution without an end to Israel’s unlawful occupation and the achievement of a viable two-State solution. Gaza is, and must remain, an integral part of a Palestinian State," he said.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern over the Israeli government's decision to "take control of Gaza City." He said this decision represents a dangerous escalation and risks deepening the already disastrous consequences for millions of Palestinians and could further endanger more lives, including those of the remaining hostages.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called on the Israeli government to immediately halt its plan to take full military control of the occupied Gaza Strip.