On November 29, 2024, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the killing of over 43,000 Palestinians and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. His remarks were made during the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.
Guterres emphasized that this year's observance is particularly painful, as fundamental goals of dignity, rights, justice, and self-determination for the Palestinian people seem further away than ever. The UN General Assembly established this day in 1977 to commemorate Resolution 181, which proposed the creation of separate Jewish and Arab states in Palestine.
He stated, 'Nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people,' while also condemning the attacks that occurred on October 7 of the previous year. Guterres described the killing of predominantly women and children as 'horrific and unforgivable.'
He criticized Israeli actions in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, citing settlement expansion, evictions, demolitions, settler violence, and threats of annexation as exacerbating the 'pain and injustice.'
Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and an end to the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories, as confirmed by the International Court of Justice and the UN General Assembly.
He stressed the need for a sustainable solution based on international law and UN resolutions, envisioning a future where 'Israel and Palestine live side by side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states.'
The Secretary-General also urged increased humanitarian support, particularly through the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), which he described as 'an irreplaceable lifeline for millions.'
Guterres reaffirmed that the United Nations will continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and their inalienable rights to live in peace, security, and dignity.
Since the brutal offensive began in October of the previous year, Israel has reportedly killed nearly 44,300 people in Gaza, primarily women and children, with over 104,900 injured. Last week, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel has been accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice due to its actions in Gaza.