Hamas Brutality Can't Justify 'Collective Punishment' Of Palestinians: UN Chief As US Opposes Gaza Ceasefire
UN Chief Antonio Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, condemning both Hamas and Israel, as the death toll rises. Meanwhile, the US has opposed the calls for an immediate ceasefire.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres convened an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Friday to address the escalating crisis in Gaza, where weeks of fighting have resulted in over 17,487 casualties, mostly women and children, according to the latest figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, news agency AFP reported. Guterres, along with a coalition of Arab countries, is pushing for a vote on an immediate ceasefire.
However, the United States, wielding a veto, has expressed opposition to such a move, making the success of such a motion highly unlikely.
"Some 130 hostages are still held captive. I call for their immediate and unconditional release, as well as their humane treatment and visits from the International Committee of the Red Cross until they are freed," stated Guterres during the meeting, as quoted by AFP.
"At the same time, the brutality perpetrated by Hamas can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people," he remarked.
The UN chief deplored the attacks by both sides, saying, "I unreservedly condemn those attacks. I am appalled by the reports of sexual violence. There is no possible justification for deliberately killing some 1,200 people, including 33 children, injuring thousands more, and taking hundreds of hostages", as per AFP's report.
Guterres invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter, a rarely-used provision that allows the Secretary-General to bring to the council's attention any matter that may threaten international peace and security.
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US Doesn't Support Calls For Immediate Ceasefire: Deputy Ambassador
Seeking a "humanitarian ceasefire" to prevent further catastrophe, Guterres faces opposition from the US.
At the UNSC meeting, Deputy US Ambassador Robert Wood remarked, "While the United States strongly supports the durable peace, in which both Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and security, we do not support calls for an immediate ceasefire. This would only plant the seeds for the next war."
Efforts are underway for a draft resolution by the United Arab Emirates, demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, protection of civilians, the release of hostages, and humanitarian access to Gaza. Previous attempts to pass a ceasefire resolution have been vetoed.
Vast areas of Gaza have been devastated, displacing around 80 percent of the population and creating shortages of food, fuel, water, and medicine. Guterres emphasised the duty to protect civilians under international humanitarian law. The situation remains critical as international leaders grapple with finding a path to peace in the region.
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