Washington, D.C., January 19, 2025 – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed his support for the recently announced ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages, hailing it as a critical step toward peace and stability in the region. In a statement issued by the United Nations, Guterres called on all parties involved to fully adhere to the terms of the ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and refraining from any actions that could undermine the fragile agreement.
The Secretary-General highlighted that this ceasefire presents a pivotal opportunity for the conflicting parties to move toward a more lasting resolution. He urged all involved to seize this moment to initiate a credible political process that would lead to a better future for the people of Gaza and the broader Middle East. Guterres underscored that this process must ultimately contribute to the end of the occupation and the realization of the long-awaited two-state solution, which remains a cornerstone of international efforts to achieve lasting peace between Israel and Palestine.
In addition to stressing the importance of full compliance with the terms of the agreement, Guterres took the opportunity to commend the efforts of the mediators—Qatar, Egypt, and the United States—who played a vital role in facilitating the ceasefire and the release of hostages. Their diplomatic efforts, Guterres noted, were instrumental in bringing the parties to the negotiating table and reaching a resolution that, while fragile, holds the potential to pave the way for further dialogue and reconciliation.
The UN Secretary-General’s remarks come at a time of heightened international attention to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has led to significant loss of life and humanitarian suffering. Guterres reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting peace initiatives and facilitating constructive dialogue between all parties, encouraging them to continue their efforts toward a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement.
As the ceasefire holds and the hostages are released, the international community remains hopeful that this moment of diplomatic progress will serve as the foundation for a renewed commitment to peace and the eventual realization of a just and lasting two-state solution. The road ahead remains challenging, but Guterres’ call for a credible political path offers a glimmer of hope for a brighter future in the region.