UN chief calls for Gaza ceasefire ahead of Oct 7 anniversary

United Nations secretary general Antonio Guterres has called for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, ahead of the third anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Guterres urged for a permanent ceasefire to ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza at scale and for compliance with international law. He emphasized that this anniversary should mark a renewed commitment to a peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians, ensuring their rights, dignity, and aspirations are met.

Guterres acknowledged the casualties on both sides, describing the Hamas attack as abhorrent for its loss of over 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals, and the hostage-taking of another 251 people. He also highlighted the immense suffering endured by Palestinians in Gaza, who have faced massive loss of life, displacement, and destruction, without providing a specific death toll. Guterres stressed that their suffering demands an immediate end.

While a brief ceasefire initiated by the US President Donald Trump in October 2025 provided some relief, it has yet to bring about lasting security, adequate humanitarian assistance, or a credible path to recovery and peace. Israel, which maintains control over most of Gaza, continues to refuse soldier withdrawal until Hamas disarmament is verified.

Conversely, Hamas advocates for gradual disarmament rather than an immediate surrender of its arsenal. Since the 2023 attacks, Israel has launched military operations in southern Lebanon to confront Hezbollah, an Islamist movement backed by Iran, and in late February, waged war against Iran alongside the United States.