From Gaza to Iraq: UN Outlines Vision for Peace and Stability in the Arab World
The Secretary-General began with a firm condemnation of both the October 7 attacks by Hamas and the ongoing collective punishment of Palestinians in Gaza. He urged immediate global action: 'We need a permanent ceasefire now, the unconditional release of all hostages now, and the free flow of humanitarian aid, now.'
He expressed deep concern over Israel's plans to expand ground operations and warned that the UN would not engage in any aid operations that violate international law or humanitarian principles. Guterres also reiterated strong support for UNRWA, calling for urgent financial backing to sustain its operations.
Highlighting the dire situation in the occupied West Bank, Guterres declared that 'annexation is illegal, settlements are illegal,' and reiterated that only a two-state solution—with Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states—can secure lasting peace. He praised the upcoming high-level conference co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia in June as a vital opportunity to keep that vision alive.
Beyond Palestine, the Secretary-General addressed other flashpoints:
Lebanon: He reaffirmed the importance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and welcomed Lebanon's pledge to assert state control over all weapons within its territory.
Syria: He called for a Syrian-led political process based on Resolution 2254 to ensure a peaceful and democratic future.
Yemen: Guterres welcomed Oman's recent mediation efforts between the U.S. and the Houthis and urged a halt to violence and a return to Yemeni-led negotiations.
Sudan: He stressed the urgent need for coordinated multilateral engagement to stop violence, famine, and displacement, applauding the collaboration between the Arab League and African Union.
Somalia: Guterres underlined the importance of inclusive dialogue and proposed predictable financing for the African Union's mission to support Somalia's security.
Libya: He noted efforts to resolve internal confrontations, protect institutions, and prepare for national elections as part of the broader goal of stability.
Turning to Iraq, Guterres praised the country's progress since regaining sovereignty in 2004 and emphasized continued UN support through to the end of the current mission's mandate in December 2025. 'We remain committed to helping Iraq achieve a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future,' he said.
Concluding his remarks, the Secretary-General struck a hopeful tone: 'Despite the enormous challenges, let us draw lessons and hope from Baghdad. Working in unity and solidarity, we can help resolve conflicts and build a future of peace and prosperity.'
The speech underscored the UN's unwavering commitment to diplomatic engagement, peacebuilding, and strengthening collaboration with the League of Arab States in shaping a stable future for the region.
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