The people of Gaza have been suffering for nearly two weeks without essential supplies such as fuel, food, water, medicine, and other necessities. The situation has become dire, with disease spreading and supplies running dangerously low. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed the crisis at a press conference in Cairo, alongside Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. Guterres described the situation as a "moment of profound crisis" unlike anything the region has witnessed in decades. He attributed this crisis to the "atrocious Hamas attacks against Israel on 7 October," which led to Israel's siege and relentless bombing of Gaza.

The toll on civilians, particularly women and children, has been devastating, and even journalists, health workers, and UN staff have fallen victim to the violence. In light of this humanitarian catastrophe, Guterres called for two immediate actions. Firstly, he urged Hamas to release the hostages they have taken without delay or conditions. Secondly, he appealed to Israel to provide unrestricted access for humanitarian aid to meet the basic needs of the people in Gaza.

Guterres emphasized that while the Palestinian people have legitimate grievances after decades of occupation, these grievances cannot justify terror attacks, nor can they justify the collective punishment of the entire population. Guterres stressed the urgency of rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza. He emphasized the need for a sustained effort to deliver aid on a large scale and in a safe manner. He highlighted the importance of Egypt's El Arish airport and the Rafah crossing, the sole entry point controlled by Egypt, as critical lifelines for the people of Gaza.

Moreover, Guterres warned about the potential for the violence to spill over into neighboring regions if the situation persists. In this regard, he commended Egypt for its role in defusing tensions and alleviating human suffering. Efforts are being made to open the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, the only route not controlled by Israel. US President Joe Biden brokered a deal with Egypt and Israel to allow aid into Gaza, and it is expected that the crossing will open soon. The United Nations humanitarian chief, Martin Griffiths, estimated that about 100 trucks per day would be necessary to meet the needs of Gaza.

Guterres also called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, which will be discussed at Cairo's Summit for Peace on Saturday. The summit aims to de-escalate the situation and ensure the delivery of much-needed aid. It is crucial that international law be respected during this crisis, with a focus on the protection of civilians. Guterres emphasized that any attacks on hospitals, schools, or UN premises are strictly forbidden under international law. The urgent priority now is to provide the people of Gaza with the necessary aid to alleviate their suffering.