Headline January 24, 2024
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated his call for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
Secretary General António Guterres: “The entire population of Gaza is suffering destruction on a scale and speed unparalleled in recent history. “Nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.”
Guterres then condemned statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders rejecting a two-state solution.
Secretary General António Guterres: “Last week’s clear and repeated rejection of the two-state solution at the highest levels of the Israeli government is unacceptable. […] “This rejection and denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people will indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a serious threat to international peace and security.”
Guterres' comments came as the Wall Street Journal reported that a group of five Arab countries have proposed a plan to end the war in Gaza and create a Palestinian state. As part of the agreement, Saudi Arabia would also recognize the State of Israel.