United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged the establishment of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza as the region marked the third anniversary of the attacks that began on October 7, 2023. In a statement commemorating the date, Guterres emphasized that the atrocities of those initial attacks should never be repeated and called for an immediate end to ongoing hostilities.

On October 7, 2023, the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a large-scale assault on Israel from Gaza, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of 251 hostages. In response, Israel conducted military operations against Hamas in Gaza, which have been reported to have caused at least 74,000 Palestinian deaths.

Guterres highlighted the immense suffering experienced by Palestinians in Gaza following the outbreak of violence. He cited significant loss of life, widespread displacement, and extensive destruction, stressing that civilians continue to live under intolerable conditions. “Their suffering, too, demands an end, now,” the UN chief said.

While a ceasefire agreement reached last year has alleviated some immediate pressures, Guterres observed that it has not yet provided lasting security, sufficient humanitarian aid, or a credible framework for recovery and peace. The ongoing cycle of violence and hardship, he argued, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to prevent further escalation and to support the affected populations on both sides.