News and context with references. Check the publication date and source dates.
Three years after Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups attacked Israel, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for an end to the suffering of Israelis and Palestinians. In a message released on Monday, he stressed that nothing could justify the atrocities committed in the October 7 attack. According to UN News, Guterres also highlighted the immense suffering endured by Palestinians in Gaza as a result of the hostilities that followed.
October 7 Victims and Hostages
Guterres described the events of October 7 as a horrific, large-scale terrorist attack. More than 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals were killed, while civilians were targeted in their homes, neighborhoods, and at a music festival.
A total of 251 people, including women, children, and older people, were abducted and taken to Gaza as hostages. Guterres said the hostages endured torture, sexual violence, and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment while in captivity. Some were reportedly killed by their captors or died in the hostilities following the attack.
He also recounted his meetings with Israeli families whose lives were devastated by the events. According to Guterres, survivors continue to bear deep physical and emotional wounds.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
At the same time, Guterres highlighted the immense suffering endured by Palestinians in Gaza as a result of the attack and subsequent hostilities. According to reports from UN agencies cited by UN News, Israeli attacks have killed more than 70,000 people, including 20,000 children, and injured more than 100,000.
Nearly all of Gaza's 2.1 million residents have been displaced, and much of the territory has been damaged. Gaza is also now said to have the highest proportion of child amputees in the world. Guterres said civilians continue to live in intolerable conditions and that their suffering must end immediately.
Ceasefire Remains Inadequate
According to Guterres, the October 2025 ceasefire provided some relief. However, the agreement has yet to deliver security, adequate humanitarian assistance, or a credible path toward recovery and peace.
He urged all parties to fully implement their commitments and proceed to the next phase of the ceasefire under Security Council Resolution 2803. Guterres also called for the ceasefire to become permanent and for humanitarian aid to flow on a large scale.
Aid Restrictions Continue
UN agencies reported that Israeli restrictions on aid remain in place, alongside deadly attacks occurring almost daily. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, said Israeli authorities suspended the entry of cargo into Gaza on Monday and announced another suspension for Wednesday, citing security concerns related to the commemoration.
Guterres expressed hope that the commemoration would not become merely another year of mourning. He called for renewed resolve to build a different future in which Palestinians and Israelis can live side by side with their rights, dignity, and aspirations fulfilled.
