In a video address to an international donors’ conference in Kuwait, Guterres reiterated his call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. "I repeat my call, the world’s call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire," he said, urging for "an immediate surge in humanitarian aid."

However, the UN chief warned that a ceasefire would only be the beginning. "But a ceasefire will only be the start. It will be a long road back from the devastation and trauma of this war," he affirmed.

The ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip since October 7th last year has resulted in a staggering 34,971 documented Palestinian fatalities, in addition to 78,641 injuries and thousands missing, according to a preliminary toll.

Furthermore, thousands are feared dead under the rubble as ambulance and rescue teams continue to face enormous challenges reaching them. Israeli occupation forces have been reported to curtail the movement of—and sometimes attack—ambulance and civil defense teams, exacerbating the crisis.

The international community is closely watching the situation, with hopes that Guterres' call for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid will bring some relief to the embattled region. (ILKHA)