UN Chief Condemns Oct. 7 Massacre, Urges Permanent Gaza Ceasefire

On the third anniversary of the October 7th attacks, UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the Hamas assault on Israel and called for the current Gaza ceasefire to be transformed into a permanent agreement. In a statement released Monday, Guterres described the massacre as "an abhorrent act of terrorism on a massive scale." He also highlighted the abuses suffered by hostages during their captivity, including torture, sexual violence, and other cruel or degrading treatment. "Nothing can justify these atrocities," Guterres stated, referencing his meetings with bereaved Israeli families and survivors still bearing physical and psychological scars. The Secretary-General also acknowledged the suffering of the Palestinian population caused by the war. According to UN figures, over 70,000 people have been killed in Gaza, including 20,000 children, with more than 100,000 others injured. Nearly all of the territory's approximately 2.1 million inhabitants have been displaced. Guterres noted that the ceasefire agreed upon in October 2025 provided some relief but did not ensure lasting security, sufficient humanitarian aid, or a credible prospect for reconstruction. He urged all parties to fully honor their commitments and move to the next phase of the agreement, in line with Security Council Resolution 2803. "May this anniversary mark not only another year of mourning but also a renewed determination to build a different future," he concluded, calling for Israelis and Palestinians to live with respect for their rights and dignity.