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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and large-scale humanitarian access in a written statement marking three years of conflict. He urged all parties to meet their commitments fully and advance to the next phase of the ceasefire.

Guterres said the October 2023 attacks must never happen again. The subsequent fighting had caused immense suffering for Palestinians in Gaza, including widespread loss of life, displacement and destruction, he said. Palestinian civilians continued to face intolerable conditions, he added. While last year's ceasefire had provided some relief, it had not secured safety, sufficient aid or a credible path toward recovery and peace.

Calling for respect for international law, Guterres stressed the need to establish a political route to lasting peace throughout the region and reaffirmed the UN's commitment to these goals. He said the anniversary should renew determination to build a different future, in which Israelis and Palestinians could live alongside one another in peace and security, with their rights, dignity and aspirations respected.

Key Takeaways

• Guterres called for a permanent Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian aid at scale.
• He said last year's ceasefire had not ensured safety, adequate aid or a credible recovery path.
• He urged all parties to fulfil their commitments and advance the ceasefire's next phase.