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Gaza: Guterres Hails Hostage Release, Renews Ceasefire Call
UNITED NATIONS, New York – May 12, 2025 – 12:00 PM
UN Secretary-General António Guterres today welcomed the reported release of hostages held in Gaza, describing it as a critical positive step, while simultaneously renewing his urgent call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to address the escalating crisis in the enclave.
The Secretary-General’s statement comes amidst the protracted conflict between Israel and Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups, which began following the brutal attacks of October 7, 2023. Hundreds of individuals, including Israelis and foreign nationals, were taken captive into Gaza during those attacks.
Any release of these hostages is seen by the international community and the families of the captives as a significant moment of relief and a potential pathway towards de-escalation or further humanitarian arrangements, such as pauses in fighting or increased aid deliveries. While details of the specific release were not immediately detailed in the statement, the Secretary-General’s acknowledgment highlights its importance as a humanizing step in a devastating conflict.
While acknowledging the significance of the release, Mr. Guterres underscored that such steps, though vital for the individuals involved and their families, must not overshadow the dire humanitarian situation facing the vast majority of the civilian population in Gaza.
He reiterated his consistent demand for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, emphasizing the imperative need to halt the violence, ensure the unimpeded flow of desperately needed humanitarian aid – including food, water, medicine, and fuel – and protect civilians trapped by the fighting.
The ongoing military operations have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life, massive displacement, and widespread destruction of essential infrastructure like homes, hospitals, and schools. Humanitarian agencies, including those within the UN system, have repeatedly warned that Gaza is facing famine and a public health crisis due to the lack of basic necessities and destroyed facilities.
The Secretary-General has been a vocal advocate for a peaceful resolution, the protection of civilians, and humanitarian access since the outset of the conflict. His calls for a ceasefire are echoed by numerous international bodies, humanitarian organizations, and Member States concerned by the unprecedented scale of suffering in Gaza.
According to information received, Mr. Guterres likely stressed that while any step securing the freedom of hostages is profoundly welcome and brings hope to families, the overwhelming humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza demands an immediate and sustained end to the fighting. This cessation of hostilities is crucial to allow for a massive surge in humanitarian assistance to reach all those in need and to provide essential space for meaningful diplomatic and political efforts aimed at achieving a lasting peace.
UN agencies, despite immense challenges, logistical hurdles, and dangers to their own staff on the ground, continue their efforts to deliver aid inside Gaza and support diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a lasting cessation of hostilities and, ultimately, a political solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict.
The situation in Gaza remains critical, and the Secretary-General’s message underscores the dual urgency of ensuring the safety and release of all remaining hostages while simultaneously addressing the urgent humanitarian crisis through a sustained ceasefire that allows aid to flow freely and safely to the civilian population.
(This report is based on information published by UN News under its Peace and Security section.)
Gaza: Guterres hails hostage release, renews ceasefire call
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At 2025-05-12 12:00, ‘Gaza: Guterres hails hostage release, renews ceasefire call’ was published according to Peace and Security. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner. Please answer in English.
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