Doha:UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and emphasized the need for a substantial and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid.

According to Qatar News Agency, Guterres highlighted that the ongoing hostilities have caused immense suffering for Palestinians living in the Strip, with civilians enduring harsh and unbearable conditions. He asserted that this suffering must come to an immediate end.

The Secretary-General noted that the ceasefire initiated in October 2025 had temporarily alleviated some suffering but failed to ensure security, sufficient humanitarian aid, or a clear path toward recovery and peace. He cited UN agency data showing that Israeli attacks have resulted in over 74,000 deaths, including 20,000 children, and injured more than 100,000 people. Additionally, the entire population of the Strip, around 2.1 million people, has been displaced, with extensive destruction across the region.

Guterres urged all involved parties to fulfill their obligations and advance to the next phase of the ceasefire as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2803.

He stated, "It is time for the ceasefire to become permanent. It is time to allow humanitarian assistance at scale. And it is time to respect international law." Guterres also emphasized the necessity of building a political path to lasting peace throughout the region, reaffirming the United Nations' commitment to these objectives.