United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, urging both the Israeli government and Hamas leadership to reach an agreement in their negotiations. His plea comes as a Hamas delegation prepares to visit Cairo for renewed indirect talk
Guterres expressed deep concern about the escalating conflict, warning that without a ceasefire, the situation could deteriorate significantly.
He emphasized the need to consider the well-being of the people of Gaza, hostages, their families, and the broader implications for the region and the world.
The UN chief's statement coincided with CIA Director William Burns' arrival in Cairo for meetings related to the ceasefire efforts, led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.
These countries have been mediating between Israel and Hamas to broker a deal for a ceasefire and the release of captives in Gaza.
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh confirmed that talks are scheduled to take place soon with the goal of ending the war in Gaza. He had earlier discussed Israel's latest proposal for a truce with Egyptian and Qatari mediators.
While the United States and the United Kingdom have described the proposed ceasefire deal as "generous," Hamas has insisted on a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the safe return of displaced families to their homes.
Hamas stated that it will not accept any agreement that falls short of these demands.
As efforts continue to secure a ceasefire, concerns have been raised about a potential Israeli ground offensive into Gaza's southern city of Rafah. This move could endanger hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and disrupt humanitarian operations in the area, including medical clinics and food distribution points.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in the displacement of over 80% of the territory's population, with many seeking shelter in Rafah near the Egyptian border. Despite international warnings against such action, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to launch a full-scale attack on Rafah to achieve what he termed "total victory" in the war.
Previous ceasefire agreements have been fragile, with violence resuming shortly after their expiration. In November, a weeklong truce saw the release of captives by Palestinian groups in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. However, Israeli forces resumed their offensive after the ceasefire ended.