United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made urgent appeals Thursday for peace in the Middle East, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and condemning Israel's approval of 3,400+ new West Bank housing units. The dual crises threaten to escalate regional tensions further. 🕊️
🚨 Gaza: “Existential Threat” to Peace
Guterres warned that Israel’s planned military operation in Gaza City would cause “death and destruction,” urging global leaders to prioritize diplomacy. His remarks came during the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, spotlighting how regional conflicts ripple worldwide.
🏘️ West Bank Settlements Spark Outrage
The UN chief criticized Israel’s new E1-area settlements near Maale Adumim, calling them a violation of international law. The project could sever the West Bank’s territorial contiguity, undermining hopes for a two-state solution. Critics argue it effectively isolates Palestinian communities.
With over 3,700 units approved this week, tensions rise as humanitarian groups warn of displacement risks. Guterres emphasized that such moves “run directly counter to UN resolutions” – a stark reminder of the stakes for global stability.
