The U.N. Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has welcomed the announcement Wednesday of a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza that is to take effect on Sunday.
“I commend the mediators — Egypt, Qatar and the United States of America — for their dedicated efforts in brokering this deal,” Antonio Guterres told reporters.
“Their unwavering commitment to finding a diplomatic solution has been critical in achieving this breakthrough.
I call on all relevant parties to uphold their commitments and ensure that this deal is fully implemented.”
Also in the comment on his X handle, he said:
“I welcome the announcement of a deal to secure a ceasefire & hostage release in Gaza.
” I commend the mediators — Egypt, Qatar & the USA — for their dedicated efforts in brokering this deal.
“I call on all to uphold their commitments & ensure that this deal is fully implemented.”
He said that from the outset of the violence, he called for an immediate ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
“Our priority must be to ease the tremendous suffering caused by this conflict.”
He called on all to facilitate the rapid, unhindered and safe humanitarian relief for all civilians in need.
“From our side, we will do whatever is humanly possible, aware of the serious challenges that we will be facing.
” I urge the parties and relevant partners to seize this opportunity to establish a credible political path to a better future for Palestinians, Israelis and the broader region. Ending the occupation and achieving a negotiated two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, in line with international law, relevant UN resolutions, and previous agreements remain an urgent priority.
Only through a viable two-state solution can the aspirations of both peoples be fulfilled.
