New York, January 16, 2024, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a compelling call on Monday for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Speaking during a press conference in New York, Guterres emphasized the critical need for an immediate pause in hostilities to facilitate the delivery of essential aid to those in desperate need.
Guterres stressed that no justification exists for the collective punishment endured by the Palestinian people. The Secretary-General expressed deep concern over the impending threat of famine looming over the citizens of Gaza, underscoring the severe risks of disease, malnutrition, and other health-related challenges.
In addition to the humanitarian crisis, Guterres shared alarming statistics, revealing that 152 UN employees have lost their lives since October seventh. This grim milestone represents the largest death toll among UN personnel in the organization's history. The Secretary-General's plea for a ceasefire is rooted in the urgent necessity to address the pressing humanitarian situation and protect the lives and well-being of the people caught in the crossfire.
