As the world marks two years since the Hamas-led terror attacks on southern Israel, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has renewed his urgent call for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages still held in Gaza, and appealed for a permanent ceasefire to end the war that has devastated both Israelis and Palestinians.
“Release the hostages, unconditionally and immediately,” Guterres said in a statement. “The horror of that dark day will be forever seared in the memories of us all.”
The October 7, 2023 attacks killed over 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals, and saw more than 250 people abducted by Hamas and taken into Gaza — including women, children, and the elderly. Today, an estimated 48 hostages remain, with 20 believed alive and 28 presumed dead.
Guterres, who has met with several hostage families and survivors, described the conditions in which they are held as deplorable and called for global pressure to end their captivity.
Humanitarian Catastrophe in Gaza
In the two years since the attacks, the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza has led to massive civilian suffering. According to Gaza’s health ministry, over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed and 170,000 wounded.
“This is a humanitarian catastrophe on a scale that defies comprehension,” the UN chief said.
Guterres condemned the continued violence and stressed that civilians are bearing the brunt of the conflict. He urged all parties — in Gaza, Israel, and the wider region — to end the bloodshed.
“Stop making civilians pay with their lives and their futures,” he pleaded.
Peace Talks Present Opportunity for End to War
Peace negotiations between Israel and Hamas are currently underway in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, based on a 20-point plan proposed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump. The proposal includes the release of all hostages, both living and deceased, as part of a broader ceasefire framework.
While Hamas has reportedly agreed to key parts of the plan, including the hostage release, disagreements remain — particularly over demands for full disarmament and the group’s post-war role in Gaza.
Guterres said the plan represents a rare opportunity to stop the violence and begin rebuilding lives.
“After two years of trauma, we must choose hope — now,” he urged.
A Call for Lasting Peace
The UN Secretary-General reiterated that only a permanent ceasefire and a credible political process grounded in international law can end the cycle of violence.
“Let us honour the memory of all the victims by working for the only path forward: a just and lasting peace,” Guterres said. “A peace where Israelis, Palestinians, and all the peoples of the region live side by side in security, dignity, and mutual respect.”
The United Nations continues to back all diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting resolution to the conflict and restore humanitarian access to those in need.
UN, António Guterres, Gaza War, Hamas, Hostage Crisis, Middle East, Israel, Palestine, Peace Talks, Ceasefire 2025
