United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres made “two strong humanitarian appeals” to Israel and Hamas on Sunday, as the war between the two continues.
“In this dramatic moment, as we are on the verge of the abyss in the Middle East, it is my duty as Secretary-General of the United Nations to make two strong humanitarian appeals,” Guterres said in a statement.
“To Hamas, the hostages must be immediately released without conditions,” he wrote. “To Israel, rapid and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid must be granted for humanitarian supplies and workers for the sake of the civilians in Gaza.”
Gaza has been running out of electricity, water and food since Israel blocked entry into the Gaza Strip last week. Guterres explained that the UN has stocks of food, water, medical supplies and more across the Levant.
“These goods can be dispatched within hours,” the statement added. “To ensure delivery, our selfless staff on the ground, along with NGO partners, need to be able to bring these supplies into and throughout Gaza safely, and without impediment to deliver to those in need.”
