UN Secretary General António Guterres marked the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel, calling for a peaceful future for both Israelis and Palestinians. On Monday, he urged the international community to work towards building a different future, one where both sides can live side by side in peace and security. Guterres emphasized that the horrors of the past must never be repeated.
The October 7 attacks, carried out by Hamas and other armed groups, resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals, and the abduction of 251 people to Gaza. These attacks triggered a war in Gaza, which has since claimed the lives of over 74,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-controlled health authority. A ceasefire has been in place since October 2025, but deadly attacks have continued, and relations between the Israeli government and the United Nations remain strained.
Guterres paid tribute to the victims of the October 7 attacks, stating that nothing can justify these atrocities. He emphasized that their suffering and the enduring grief of their families must never be forgotten. The UN chief also highlighted the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza following the war, stating that their suffering demands an end.
The UN Secretary General noted that while the ceasefire has brought some relief, it has yet to deliver security, adequate humanitarian assistance, or a credible path to recovery and peace. He urged all sides to fully implement their commitments and move to the next phase of the ceasefire. Guterres emphasized that it is time for the ceasefire to become permanent and for humanitarian assistance to be allowed at scale.
Guterres also stressed the importance of respecting international law and building a political path to lasting peace across the region. He called on all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution, one that addresses the rights, dignity, and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. The UN chief's comments come as relations between the Israeli government and the United Nations remain deeply strained.
Israel has accused Guterres of bias, while the UN chief has repeatedly criticized Israel's conduct in Gaza. Despite these tensions, Guterres remains committed to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict. He emphasized that the international community must work together to prevent such atrocities from happening again.
As the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks is marked, Guterres' message serves as a reminder of the need for a peaceful and lasting resolution to the conflict. The international community must come together to support efforts towards peace, security, and humanitarian assistance for those affected.
Key points
- UN Secretary General António Guterres calls for a peaceful future for Israelis and Palestinians.
- The October 7 attacks resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals.
- Guterres emphasizes the need for a permanent ceasefire and respect for international law.
