More than 250 people, including many women and children, have been abducted in horrific attacks by Gaza-based militants.
“The time has come to release the hostages. It’s time to silence the guns. It is time to end the suffering that has gripped this region,” said Antonio Guterres. Antonio Guterres called for peace, restoration of international law and justice for all victims and survivors.
‘Wounded Souls’
The UN secretary-general added that the attack had “wounded the soul”. Victims suffer unspeakable violence, including clear cases of sexual assault.
“Today is a day when the world reiterates with its loudest voice our utter condemnation of Hamas’s abhorrent actions, including hostage kidnapping.”
Prime Minister Guterres said he had spent the past year meeting with the families of those still detained in the camps, learning more about their lives, hopes and dreams and “sharing their pain and suffering.”
“I can’t imagine the torture they have to endure every day,” he said, adding that Hamas and other militants should allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to visit the hostages and provide them with the medical treatment they need.
He expressed solidarity with all victims of the October 7 attacks and their loved ones.
‘Hold on to hope’
Commenting on the aftermath of the brutal massacre, the Secretary-General pointed out that the terrorism unleashed that day resulted in “shocking violence and bloodshed.”
“The war that followed the horrific attacks a year ago continues to destroy the lives of Palestinians in Gaza and now the people of Lebanon and cause severe human suffering,” he said, adding, “I have spoken often and clearly about this.” ”
He said the United Nations would work to secure the release of all hostages, end suffering throughout the region, and establish lasting peace in accordance with international law and the principles of justice.
Ultimately, he added, “Even amidst much bloodshed and division, we must hold on to hope.”
He urged the international community to “never stop working for a lasting solution” to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This will allow all Middle Eastern countries to finally live together “in peace, dignity, and mutual respect.”
