The ongoing conflict in Gaza has raised concerns about regional instability, prompting UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to emphasize the urgent need for international support for a two-state solution in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Guterres highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with tens of thousands of civilians dead and the risk of famine and disease among the displaced population. He warned of potential spillover conflicts, such as a full-scale confrontation between Israel and Lebanon, emphasizing the necessity of avoiding escalation at all costs.
Guterres stressed that addressing the humanitarian situation in Gaza and implementing a humanitarian ceasefire are crucial but insufficient measures. He called for a comprehensive commitment from the international community to a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, viewing it as the foundation for a stable and peaceful Middle East. According to Guterres, the only way for Israelis and Palestinians to coexist securely is through the establishment of separate states.
The UN Secretary-General also drew parallels with other international conflicts, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the actions of Houthi fighters in Yemen. He criticized parties involved in conflicts for disregarding international law, violating the Geneva Conventions, and undermining the United Nations Charter.
In a broader context, Guterres addressed global economic challenges, geopolitical divisions, and the urgent need for reforms. He called on world leaders and the private sector to support financial institution reforms to restore trust in governments and global cooperation.
Guterres highlighted the growing disconnect between the rich and the rest of the world, emphasizing the importance of serious negotiations between industrialized and emerging economies drowning in debt.
Expressing concern about the environmental and technological aspects, Guterres condemned the fossil fuel industry’s efforts to impede progress in addressing climate change. He also criticized Big Tech, highlighting the serious unintended consequences of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the lack of an effective global strategy to address its challenges.
Despite geopolitical divides and new threats to global peace, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Middle East crisis, Guterres expressed optimism about progress in key areas of global cooperation. He called for a reformed and inclusive multilateral system to prevent an “epidemic of impunity” and address issues like inequality and the erosion of trust in governments and institutions.
