United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, as Israel announced the initial stages of an operation to take control of Gaza City. Guterres made his appeal on Thursday while attending the Tokyo International Conference on African Development in Japan, emphasizing the critical need to halt the violence to prevent further civilian casualties and destruction.
Israel has mobilized tens of thousands of military reservists for what it terms "Operation Gideon's Chariots II," with the stated aim of capturing Gaza City, a significant stronghold for Hamas. This operation has raised international concerns regarding potential widespread displacement and a deepening humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that Israel currently controls approximately 75% of the Gaza Strip.
The conflict began on October 7, 2023, with attacks by Hamas militants on southern Israeli communities. Gaza's health ministry reports that at least 60,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began. Guterres also reiterated calls for the unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas, stressing the paramount importance of civilian safety.
In addition to the Gaza situation, Guterres voiced criticism regarding Israel's recent approval of expanded settlement construction in the West Bank. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry stated that this expansion, which could bisect the territory and hinder the prospects for a two-state solution, would isolate Palestinian communities and undermine the possibility of a viable Palestinian state. The international community continues to monitor the escalating situation, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint and prioritize the protection of civilian lives.