Antonio Guterres has expressed concern that the ongoing war in Gaza could escalate significantly without a ceasefire agreement, as Israel prepares for a potential assault on Rafah. The United Nations chief urged both the government of Israel and Hamas leadership to reach a truce for the sake of the people of Gaza, hostages, and their families, as well as the region and the wider world. He emphasized the importance of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire are ongoing, with Hamas engaged in talks with Egyptian mediators to reach an agreement. The latest Israeli proposal includes a temporary halt in fighting and the exchange of captives, but Hamas has insisted on a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza as part of any deal.
As tensions remain high, the UN has raised concerns about a potential Israeli ground offensive in Rafah, which could endanger the lives of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in the besieged city. Aid operations in Rafah, including medical clinics and food distribution points, are crucial for the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has been exacerbated by the Israeli blockade.
Despite international calls to avoid further escalation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to launch a full-scale attack on Rafah to achieve “total victory” in the war. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further civilian casualties and displacement if the conflict continues to escalate.