UNITED Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged international action to establish a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing that the anniversary of the 7 October 2023 attacks must become a turning point toward a peaceful future for both Israelis and Palestinians.
"It is time for the ceasefire to become permanent. It is time to allow humanitarian assistance at scale. And it is time to respect international law," AFP cited Guterres saying in a statement.
"Let this date mark not only another year of mourning, but also a renewed determination to build a different future. In that future, Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace and security, with their rights, dignity, and aspirations fulfilled."
Highlighting the immense toll on civilians in Gaza, Guterres noted that Palestinians continue to face widespread loss of life, severe destruction, and massive displacement.
"Their suffering, too, demands an end now," he added.
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, more than 74,200 people have been killed in Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Guterres acknowledged that the temporary ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump in October 2025 provided temporary relief, but noted its limitations.
"However, it has yet to deliver security, adequate humanitarian assistance, or a credible path toward recovery and peace," he stated.
Israel, which maintains operational control over significant portions of Gaza, has refused to withdraw its forces until the complete disarming of Hamas is verified. Hamas has advocated for a phased disarmament process rather than an immediate, unconditional surrender of weapons.
Since the 2023 attacks, the conflict has expanded across the region, with Israeli military operations targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and strikes launched against targets in Iran alongside the United States in late February. - October 6, 2026
