Potential Gaza Stabilization Force Requires Security Council Approval: Guterres
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the importance of maintaining unity between Gaza and the West Bank in any transition process, advocating for a two-State solution between Israelis and Palestinians. He spoke on this during a press conference at the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar.
Coordination on Gaza and Stabilization Efforts
Guterres addressed questions about coordination with Israel and US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, which proposes deploying a temporary international stabilization force. This plan was developed with input from the US, Arab nations, and international partners.
Humanitarian Aid and Ceasefire
The Secretary-General confirmed that the UN is "actively engaged in making sure that humanitarian aid increases dramatically" in Gaza and reaches all those in need. He acknowledged the US role in persuading Israel to gradually ease restrictions affecting aid delivery.
“On the other hand, we have been very actively supporting the principle that the ceasefire must hold, that all parties must abide by the ceasefire, that there must be a link between Gaza and the West Bank in the way the next stage is put in place.”
He added that the process must ultimately lead to a two-State solution and the recognition of an independent Palestinian state.
UN’s Stance on Cooperation
Guterres highlighted that the UN’s position remains clear and independent:
“The UN’s positions have been very clear and are not dependent on cooperating with this or that country.”
This statement reinforces the UN's commitment to neutrality and principled engagement in the peace process.
Author’s Summary
António Guterres called for coordinated efforts to uphold Gaza-West Bank unity and a two-State solution, underscoring the UN’s impartial role and the need for humanitarian aid and a lasting ceasefire.