‘Words don't feed hungry children' - UN's Guterres calls for ceasefire in Gaza
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza, describing it as “a moral crisis that challenges the global conscience.”
Speaking at an event with Amnesty International, Guterres called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access.
“We see attacks on the International Criminal Court. Attacks on the international human rights system and its representatives. And flagrant violations of international law. From the horrors in Sudan and beyond to Russia's invasion in Ukraine, where we need a just and lasting peace based on the UN charter, international law and the UN resolutions. And of course, the relentless Israeli onslaught on Gaza,” Guterres said.
He highlighted the disproportionate level of violence in Gaza, adding, “I have repeatedly condemned the horrific 7th October terror attacks by Hamas. But nothing can justify the explosion of death and destruction since. The scale and scope is beyond anything we have seen in recent times,” Viory quotes.
He added, “Children, speaking of wanting to go to heaven because, at least they say there is food there. We hold video calls with our own humanitarians who are starving before our eyes. And this is not just a humanitarian crisis, it's a moral crisis that challenges the global conscience. We will continue to speak out at every opportunity, but words don't feed hungry children."
Background on Gaza Conflict
Israeli military operations in Gaza, launched following the October 7 Hamas attacks, have reportedly killed over 59,219 Palestinians and injured more than 143,045, according to Gaza's Ministry of Health. The conflict has devastated civilian infrastructure and pushed millions to the brink of famine.
“Let me repeat, 1000 people killed, not in combat, but in desperation, while the entire population starves. We need action,” Guterres urged. “At the same time, we need urgent, concrete and irreversible steps towards the two-state solution.”
Guterres called on global leaders not to “turn a blind eye” to their obligations, describing the crisis as not only humanitarian but also a test of international justice and morality.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
