-UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a powerful statement marking two years since the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel, renewing his urgent call for the “unconditional and immediate” release of hostages still held in Gaza.

Guterres recalled the tragic events of October 7, 2023, when over 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals were killed and more than 250 people abducted by Hamas. He emphasized that 48 hostages remain in captivity, with only 20 believed to be alive, and condemned the “deplorable conditions” in which they are being held.

“I have said it time and again, and I am repeating it today with even greater urgency: release the hostages, unconditionally and immediately,” Guterres declared. He also expressed solidarity with the victims’ families, many of whom he has met personally.

The Secretary-General highlighted the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 170,000 injured since the conflict began. He described the situation as “a humanitarian catastrophe on a scale that defies comprehension”, and called for an end to the violence across Gaza, Israel, and the wider region.

With indirect negotiations underway in Sharm El-Sheikh over a proposed 20-point peace plan led by the United States, Guterres urged all parties to seize the opportunity for a permanent ceasefire and a credible political process. He emphasized that “after two years of trauma, we must choose hope—now”, and reiterated the UN’s commitment to a just and lasting peace where “Israelis, Palestinians, and all peoples of the region live side by side in security, dignity, and mutual respect”.