Nothing can justify the abhorrent 7 October terror attacks by Hamas. I reiterate my call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. Yet the toll on civilians continues to escalate. It is time for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza.
Secretary-General António Guterres in remarks to the Summit of the League of Arab States, Bahrain, 16 May '24