CAIRO – 14 May 2025: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres commended the ongoing mediation efforts exerted by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to cease hostilities in Gaza.
In a Statement released on May 12, The UN Chief urged all parties to reach a comprehensive agreement that ensures the release of all hostages, an end to the fighting, the provision of humanitarian aid, and the long-awaited alleviation of human suffering in Gaza.
Guterres reiterated his urgent call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and detainees, stressing the necessity of treating hostages with humanity and dignity.
The Secretary-General called on all parties to ensure rapid, unhindered, and safe access for humanitarian relief, including the provision of essential services, to all civilians in immediate need. He emphasized unequivocally that "aid is not negotiable."
Guterres’ statement comes in the background of Hamas releasing Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander following extensive contacts with the U.S. administration over the past few days.