UN Chief Guterres Says, He Will Not Stop Appealing Until Ceasefire

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that he remains committed to appealing for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. He emphasized that the ongoing war undermines the credibility and authority of the Security Council.

Despite the Security Council’s failure to endorse a ceasefire, Guterres asserted that the necessity for a humanitarian pause persists, and he expressed determination not to give up on his efforts.

At the Doha Forum conference, Guterres addressed the situation after the United States vetoed a proposed UN Security Council demand for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Also Read: US Blocks UN Resolution Calling For Gaza Ceasefire

Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, affirmed Doha’s intention to continue pressuring both Israel and Hamas for a truce, despite what he described as “narrowing” chances.

Highlighting the urgency of a humanitarian ceasefire, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini emphasized the need to end the dire situation in Gaza. The United States and Israel, opposing a ceasefire, argue that it would primarily benefit Hamas.

Instead, Washington supports temporary halts in fighting to safeguard civilians and facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7 attack on Israel.

Guterres also used the platform to address the COP28 climate conference, urging leaders to commit to substantial emissions reductions to prevent global warming from exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius. Despite previous pledges, he noted that emissions are at a record high, with fossil fuels being a major contributor. Guterres called on leaders at COP28 in Dubai to reach a consensus on deep emissions cuts and urged fossil fuel companies to leverage their significant resources to lead the transition to renewables.