Beijing, China (CNN Philippines, October 18) — United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres is demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire as the war between Israel and militant group Hamas rages on.
Speaking at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, China on Wednesday, the UN chief said there is a need to give space among warring forces to ease the suffering of people.
Guterres also made two humanitarian appeals to Hamas and Israel.To Hamas, for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages,” said Guterres.To Israel, to immediately allow unrestricted access of humanitarian aid to respond to the most basic needs of the people of Gaza — the overwhelming majority of whom are women and children,” he added.The UN chief said he is aware of the grievances of the Palestinians but noted that brutal attacks against civilians could not be justified.I am fully aware of the deep grievances of the Palestinian people after 56 years of occupation,” he said. “But, as serious as these grievances are, they cannot justify the acts of terror against civilians committed by Hamas on October 7 that I immediately condemned.Guterres also condemned the Oct. 17 attacks on Al Ahli hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people.
