Middle East Crisis: UN Boss Urges ‘Immediate Action’ to Protect Civilians, Release Hostages
January 20, 2025
New York, USA – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned the ongoing violence in the Middle East and called for immediate measures to safeguard civilians and secure the release of all hostages.
Guterres’s remarks comeamid escalating tensions between Israel and Palestine, which have resulted in numerous casualties and extensive destruction of infrastructure. On Friday, Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple sites in the Gaza Strip in retaliation for rocket attacks launched into Israel by Hamas.
The situation has sparked international concern and Guterres has urged both sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue.
“I am deeply concerned about the ongoing escalation of violence in the Middle East,” Guterres said in a statement. “I condemn all attacks against civilians and call for an immediate end to the hostilities.”
The UN chief emphasized the need for immediate humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict.
“I urge all parties to allow unimpeded access for humanitarian agencies to provide life-saving aid to those in need,” Guterres added.
In addition to the civilian casualties, the ongoing crisis has also had a significant impact on the region’s infrastructure. Health facilities, schools, and homes have been damaged or destroyed, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Guterres particularly emphasized the need to secure the release of all hostages held by both sides.
“I call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages,” Guterres said. “These individuals must be protected and allowed to return to their families.”
The UN chief also called on the international community to support efforts to resolve the underlying issues fuelling the conflict.
“It is essential that we work together to address the root causes of this conflict and find a just and lasting solution,” Guterres said.
The UN Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting on the Middle East crisis in the coming days.
Middle East crisis: Updates for 20 January; Guterres calls for ‘immediate action’ to protect civilians, release of all hostages
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