U.N. Chief Urges Immediate Cease-Fire as Gaza Conflict Violates International Law
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an urgent cease-fire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Speaking at the World Economic Forum, Guterres criticized both parties for their disregard of international laws and the violation of the Geneva Conventions and U.N. Charter.
In his statement at the event in Davos, Switzerland, Guterres emphasized the need for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace and prevent further regional escalation. He invoked Article 99 of the U.N. Charter, citing the severe humanitarian risks faced by the people of Gaza, marking the first time he has used this article.
Guterres highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, warning of a potential collapse in public order and underscoring the desperate conditions faced by displaced and injured civilians. However, despite these concerns, Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected calls for a cease-fire and insisted on the return of all hostages taken by Hamas as a precondition.
A temporary cease-fire in 2023 briefly allowed for a partial hostage-prisoner exchange, but it collapsed due to stalled negotiations and unsatisfactory terms from Hamas. As the conflict continues to escalate beyond 100 days, Guterres’ urgent plea for an immediate cease-fire remains crucial to address the violations of international law and alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza.
