MUSCAT: Speaking at the African Development Conference in Tokyo, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgent need to halt ongoing violence in Gaza. He highlighted the immediate necessity of reaching a ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties and the destruction of vital infrastructure. Guterres underscored that military operations targeting densely populated areas of the city could have catastrophic humanitarian consequences and called for international support to ensure protection for civilians.
The UN Secretary-General also addressed the controversial expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, describing them as illegal under international law. He urged Israel to reverse these decisions, warning that continued expansion could exacerbate tensions and undermine prospects for peace. Guterres emphasized the importance of adhering to United Nations resolutions and international legal frameworks to maintain credibility and stability in the region.
Diplomatic efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire are currently underway, involving several countries acting as mediators. The proposed agreement is expected to include a partial prisoner exchange, aimed at building confidence between the conflicting parties. While Hamas has publicly welcomed the initiative, Israel’s response remains unclear, and the international community is closely monitoring developments to ensure that negotiations lead to tangible results.
The renewed UN appeal reflects ongoing concern over escalating violence and its impact on civilians, particularly children and vulnerable populations. Guterres called for sustained international engagement, humanitarian support, and political dialogue to prevent further deterioration. The situation highlights the critical role of diplomacy and multilateral cooperation in addressing protracted conflicts and advancing long-term stability in the region.
