Guterres expressed his deep concern over the rising violence and expanding conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. He emphasized that the crisis in Gaza is not just a humanitarian crisis, but a crisis of humanity. The Secretary-General called for a humanitarian ceasefire and stressed the importance of protecting civilians. He highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict on children, stating that Gaza is becoming a graveyard for them, with hundreds being killed or injured every day.

Guterres also expressed concern over the killing of journalists, stating that more journalists have been killed in this conflict than in any conflict in at least three decades. The UN and its partners have launched a humanitarian appeal to assist the entire population in Gaza and half a million Palestinians in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. However, the aid deliveries are not meeting the scale of need, particularly due to the lack of access to fuel, which is essential for essential services like hospitals and water supply.

Guterres called for immediate and unfettered access to deliver supplies to all people in need in Gaza. He also urged an end to the use of civilians as human shields and the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The Secretary-General emphasized the need to address the wider impacts of the conflict and called for an end to the spiral of escalation in the region. He expressed deep concern over the rise in antisemitism and anti-Muslim bigotry, noting the fear and insecurity felt by Jewish and Muslim communities worldwide.

Guterres mourned the UNRWA staff who have been killed in Gaza, including a young woman named Mai, who despite her physical limitations, had pursued her dreams and worked in information technology for UNRWA. In conclusion, Guterres appealed for international action to find a way out of this destructive situation, emphasizing the importance of peace and a two-State solution for Israelis and Palestinians.