UN chief condemns Israel relentless attacks on Palestinian Solidarity Day
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks as U.N. General Assembly appointed him for a second five-year term from January 1, 2022, in New York City, New York, U.S., June 18, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza and the Occupied West Bank on Friday, highlighting the devastating humanitarian crisis and the continued loss of Palestinian lives.
Marking the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, observed annually on November 29, Guterres reflected on the dire situation this year, calling it “especially painful.”
“Every year on this day, the international community stands in solidarity for the dignity, rights, justice, and self-determination of the Palestinian people. This year’s commemoration is especially painful as those fundamental goals are as distant as they have ever been,” Guterres stated.
He underscored the appalling loss of life in Gaza, where over 43,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, have been killed since October 2023. The UN Chief described the deaths and humanitarian crisis as “appalling and inexcusable,” condemning Israeli settlement expansions, evictions, demolitions, and violence in the Occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Guterres reiterated the UN’s stance against collective punishment, saying, “Nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.” He also called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the end of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, as reaffirmed by international law and UN resolutions.
Highlighting the need for a two-state solution, Guterres envisioned “Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.”
He urged continued humanitarian support, particularly through UNRWA, which serves as a critical resource for millions of Palestinian refugees.
