UN chief calls for serious dialogue, while global powers vow to support rebuilding efforts after 11 days of violence.
World leaders have welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that began on Friday morning and pledged to support the rebuilding of Gaza, following a devastating conflict that left over 230 Palestinians dead and 12 in Israel.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for both Israel and Hamas to honor the ceasefire and emphasized the need for a global effort to help rebuild Gaza and strengthen Palestinian institutions. He urged both parties to begin a “serious dialogue” to address the root causes of the conflict, stating, “Israeli and Palestinian leaders have a responsibility beyond the restoration of calm.”
Despite this call for dialogue, many experts remain skeptical about immediate progress toward resolving the core issues, including Israel’s ongoing military control over Palestinian territories and its blockade on Gaza, which continues to impact the lives of two million people under Hamas rule.
However, Guterres affirmed that the UN is prepared to engage in meaningful negotiations towards a two-state solution based on the pre-1967 borders.
In the United States, President Joe Biden expressed hope for long-term peace, stressing the importance of “quiet and relentless diplomacy” to move towards a sustainable settlement. He also highlighted the US’s role in leading efforts for peace.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced plans to visit the region to discuss reconstruction and collaborative efforts for a better future for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The immediate focus of international efforts will be on maintaining the ceasefire, providing humanitarian relief, and beginning the reconstruction of Gaza.
