Guterres pledges UN support for the agreement between Israel and Hamas.

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the conclusion of a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages. He assured that the Organization is ready to assist in implementing this initiative.

This was reported by RBK-Ukraine citing the UN website.

Speaking to reporters at UN headquarters, the Secretary-General thanked the mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the USA for their dedicated efforts in reaching the agreement.

"Their unwavering commitment to seeking a diplomatic solution was crucial in achieving this breakthrough," Guterres said.

He urged all parties involved to fulfill their obligations to ensure the full implementation of the agreement.

The Goal - Overcoming Humanitarian Catastrophe

Emphasizing that the priority should be alleviating the immense suffering caused by the conflict, Guterres stated that the UN is prepared to support the implementation of the agreement and increase the provision of sustainable humanitarian aid.

"It is essential that this ceasefire removes significant security and political obstacles to delivering aid across Gaza, so we can support a substantial increase in urgent humanitarian assistance that saves lives. The humanitarian situation is at a catastrophic level," he warned.

Guterres also called on all parties to facilitate the rapid, unhindered, and safe provision of humanitarian aid to all civilians in need. The UN, for its part, "will do everything in human power, recognizing the serious challenges and limitations we will face."

The Secretary-General expects these efforts to be supported by humanitarian organizations, the private sector, and bilateral initiatives.

"This agreement is an important first step, but we must mobilize all efforts to achieve broader goals, including preserving the unity, indivisibility, and integrity of the occupied Palestinian territory," he said.

Palestinian Unity - A Key Factor

In this context, Guterres emphasized that Palestinian unity is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability and stressed that the main priority should remain a unified Palestinian governance.

"I urge the parties and all relevant partners to seize this opportunity to establish a reliable political path towards a better future for Palestinians, Israelis, and the entire region," he noted.

He underscored the need to end the occupation and reach a negotiated two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians.

Peace Agreement Between Israel and Hamas

In May 2024, negotiations began for a ceasefire and hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas. Qatar and Egypt acted as mediators. The talks were based on a three-phase agreement proposed by Biden.

However, over the past year, the process has been slow and challenging. At the beginning of January, the parties resumed negotiations.

According to Israeli media, on January 15, Israel and Hamas agreed on the text of a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and the exchange of hostages. It comprises three phases.

US President Joe Biden predicts an end to hostilities in the Gaza Strip following the conclusion of the agreement.

The President of Israel called on the government to approve a "peaceful" agreement with the Palestinian group.