UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced on Thursday that the United Nations is poised to significantly enhance humanitarian assistance to Gaza in the wake of a newly brokered ceasefire agreement. Speaking to reporters at the UN headquarters in New York, Guterres emphasized the organization’s readiness to mobilize resources immediately. ‘The United Nations will provide its full support. We and our partners are prepared to act now,’ he stated. ‘We have the expertise, distribution networks, and community relationships in place. Supplies are ready, and our teams are on standby. We can scale up food, water, medical, and shelter assistance without delay.’ Guterres underscored that the cessation of hostilities alone is insufficient to ensure lasting progress. ‘We need full, safe, and sustained access for humanitarian workers; the removal of bureaucratic obstacles; and the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure. Additionally, UN Member States must ensure that humanitarian operations are adequately funded to address the immense needs,’ he added. The UN chief highlighted the ceasefire as a pivotal moment for both Israelis and Palestinians, urging all parties to seize this opportunity to forge a credible political path toward peace. ‘This agreement offers a glimmer of relief, which must evolve into the dawn of peace and the beginning of the end of this devastating war,’ Guterres remarked. He called for the recognition of Palestinian self-determination, the end of occupation, and the realization of a two-state solution, emphasizing that such measures are essential for achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. Guterres also praised the diplomatic efforts led by the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye in facilitating the ceasefire and hostage release, based on a proposal by former US President Donald Trump. He urged all parties to fully adhere to the agreement’s terms and to embrace the opportunities it presents for lasting stability.
UN ready to scale up humanitarian relief to Gazans following ceasefire deal: Guterres
