Guterres: No sustainable future for Gaza that is not part of a viable Palestinian state

Speaking at the emergency summit of Arab nations on the situation in the Middle East and Gaza reconstruction in Cairo, Guterres welcomed Arab-led efforts to mobilize support for Gaza’s recovery.

He said, “Palestinians in Gaza have suffered beyond measure. And the risk of even greater devastation looms. This Summit is an important signal that the world has a collective responsibility to support efforts to end this war, relieve profound human suffering and secure lasting peace.”

The Secretary-General stressed that “we must avoid at all costs the resumption of hostilities that would plunge the millions back into an abyss of suffering and further destabilize the region.”

He stressed that rebuilding the war-ravaged territory must be guided by principles that respect international law and prevent further cycles of violence.

Guterres said, “ending the immediate crisis is not enough. We need a clear political framework that lays the foundation for Gaza’s recovery, reconstruction and lasting stability. That framework must be based on principles and respect for international law.”

The Secretary-General said, “reconstruction requires governance and security arrangements that can help guarantee a brighter and more stable future for Palestinians,” and highlighted “the critical role” of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) “that continues to deliver in the most difficult circumstances.”