In his message on the anniversary of the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres points out that global condemnation of the actions of militants of the Palestinian Islamist movement remains strong, noting that the attack left deep wounds, while reiterates his call for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages.

The attack claimed the lives of more than 1,250 people and during its duration more than 250 others, including women and children, were kidnapped, the head of the international organization recalls.

It refers to the war that followed, causing untold suffering in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. He reiterates his call for peace, louder than ever, calling for a cessation of violence and a solution based on international law, justice and dignity for all in the Middle East.

The UN remains committed to these goals, stressing the need for hope and a sustainable solution whereby Israel, Palestine and the region can “finally” live in “peace, dignity and respect”.

The full statement by the UN Secretary-General:

“Today marks one year since the horrific events of October 7, when Hamas launched a large-scale terrorist attack on Israel, killing over 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals, including children and women.

“More than 250 people were abducted and taken to Gaza, including many women and children.

“The October 7 attack scarred souls — and on this day we remember all those who were brutally killed and suffered unspeakable violence, including sexual violence, as they were simply living their lives.

“This is a day when the international community must repeat in the loudest voice our absolute condemnation of the heinous acts of Hamas, including the taking of hostages.

“Over the past year, I have met with families of the hostages… I have learned more about the lives, hopes and dreams of their loved ones… and shared their anguish and pain.

“I cannot fathom the tortures they are forced to endure every day. I demand once again the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

Until then, Hamas must allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to visit the hostages.

“October 7th is of course a day when we will focus on the events of that awful day. I express my solidarity with all the victims and their loved ones.

“After October 7, a wave of shocking violence and bloodshed broke out.

“The war that followed the horrific attacks a year ago continues to destroy lives and cause profound human suffering to the Palestinians in Gaza, and now to the people of Lebanon.

“I have spoken about this often and clearly.

“The time has come to release the hostages. Silence the guns. Time to put an end to the woes that have engulfed the region. The time for peace, international law and justice.

»The United Nations is fully committed to achieving these goals.

“In the midst of so much bloodshed and division, we must continue to hope.

“Let’s honor the memory of the victims, reunite families and end the suffering and violence across the Middle East.

“May we never stop working for a lasting solution to the conflict, whereby Israel, Palestine and all other countries in the region will finally be able to live in peace, with dignity and with respect for one another.”