Marking one year since the devastating October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a powerful plea for peace, urging the world to remember the lives lost and the pain endured by the hostages. “It’s time to silence the guns,” he declared, as the conflict continues to devastate Gaza and spread violence across the region. His message was clear: the violence must end, and the international community must unite to demand justice, humanity, and peace for all affected.
The attacks claimed the lives of over 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals, leaving an indelible mark. Guterres acknowledged the horrific violence faced by the victims, including women and children, noting how the October 7th events scarred families and communities. He called on the world to remember those who were “brutally killed and suffered unspeakable violence.”
Guterres also addressed the ongoing trauma for the families of more than 250 individuals abducted during the attacks, many of whom were women and children. “I cannot imagine the torture they are forced to endure every day,” he stated, urging for the “immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.”
He demanded that Hamas allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to visit the hostages, stressing the necessity of upholding international humanitarian laws. “Hamas must allow the Red Cross to access the hostages,” he said, pointing to the importance of ensuring transparency and respect for human rights.
The Secretary-General also reflected on the broader devastation caused by the conflict, which has now spilled over into Lebanon. “The war that has followed the terrible attacks of one year ago continues to shatter lives and inflict profound human suffering,” he said, condemning the widespread violence that persists.
Calling for a renewed focus on peace, Guterres appealed to world leaders to push for a resolution. “It is time for peace, international law, and justice,” he urged, pointing to the need for a sustainable solution where Israel, Palestine, and the broader Middle East can coexist in dignity and respect.
As the international community marks the anniversary of the October 7th attacks, Guterres’ message serves as a reminder of the need for collective action and hope. “In the midst of so much bloodshed and division, we must hold on to hope,” he concluded, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to working toward a lasting peace for the region.