Informal comments to the media by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the cease-fire between Israel and Gaza.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the ceasefire between “Gaza and Israel, after 11 days of deadly hostilities” and extended his deepest condolences to the victims of the violence and their loved ones.

Speaking to reporters today (20 May), Guterres commended Egypt and Qatar for the efforts carried out, in close coordination with the UN, to help restore calm to Gaza and Israel and called on all sides to observe the ceasefire.

Guterres said, “I appeal to the international community to work with the United Nations on developing an integrated, robust package of support for a swift, sustainable reconstruction and recovery that supports the Palestinian people and strengthens their institutions.”

The Secretary-General stressed that Israeli and Palestinian leaders have a responsibility “beyond the restoration of calm to start a serious dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict.” He said Gaza is an integral part of the future Palestinian state and “no effort should be spared to bring about real national reconciliation that ends the division.”

Guterres underscored the United Nations’ deep commitment to working with Israelis and Palestinians, and with international and regional partners “to return to the path of meaningful negotiations to end the occupation and allow for the realization of a two-State solution on the basis of the 1967 lines, UN resolutions, international law and mutual agreements.”

Asked about the next steps, it would be very important to “stabilize the ceasefire.” He stressed the importance to have a robust programme of humanitarian aid and recovery for Gaza, and to “revitalize the peace process, to restart the peace process in order to have a two-State solution.”

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