UN Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated his appeal for the Government of Israel and the leadership of Hamas to “show the political courage and spare no effort to secure an agreement now,” adding that this is a “crucial opportunity” that the region – and the world – “cannot afford to miss.”

Guterres today (07 May) spoke to reporters in New York.

The chief of the world body said, “We are at a decisive moment for the Palestinian and Israeli people and for the fate of the entire region. An agreement between the Government of Israel and the leadership of Hamas is essential to stop the unbearable suffering of Palestinians in Gaza and of the hostages and their families. It would be tragic if weeks of intense diplomatic activity for peace in Gaza, yield no ceasefire. No release of hostages. And a devastating offensive in Rafah.”

Guterres highlighted, “I am disturbed and distressed by the renewed military activity in Rafah by the Israeli Defence Forces. The closure of both the Rafah and Karem Shalom crossings is especially damaging to an already dire humanitarian situation. They must be re-opened immediately.”

“Just to give one example,” the Secretary-General said, “we risk running out of fuel this evening.”

The UN chief urged the Government of Israel to “stop any escalation, and engage constructively in the ongoing diplomatic talks.”

Guterres asked, “After more than 1,100 Israelis killed in the Hamas terror attacks of 7 October … after more than 34,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza, haven’t we seen enough? Haven’t civilians suffered enough death and destruction?”

“Make no mistake – a full-scale assault on Rafah will be a human catastrophe. Countless more civilian casualties. Countless more families forced to flee yet again – with nowhere safe to go,” the Secretary-General stressed.

He continued, “Rafah is the epicenter of humanitarian operations in Gaza. Attacking Rafah will further upend our efforts to support people in dire humanitarian straits as famine looms.”

Guterres reiterated, “International humanitarian law is unequivocal: civilians must be protected – whether they leave Rafah or stay in the city. International humanitarian law must be respected by both parties.”

He also reminded Israel of “its obligation to facilitate the safe and unimpeded access of humanitarian aid and staff into and across Gaza.”

Guterres said, “Even the best friends of Israel are clear: An assault on Rafah would be a strategic mistake, a political calamity, and a humanitarian nightmare.”

The UN chief appealed to all those with influence over Israel to “do everything in their power to help avert even more tragedy.”

He concluded, “The international community has a shared responsibility to promote a humanitarian ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and a massive surge in life-saving aid. It is time for the parties to seize the opportunity and secure a deal for the sake of their own people.”