Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated, “Unity and solidarity throughout the Arab world would amplify the vital voice of the region” and further boost its influence on the global stage at the Meeting of the Council of the League of Arab States at the Summit level taking place in Bahrain.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated, “Unity and solidarity throughout the Arab world would amplify the vital voice of the region” and further boost its influence on the global stage.

The Secretary-General Spoke at the Summit of the League of Arab States today (16 May) in Manama, Bahrain.

He said that “nothing can justify the abhorrent 7 October terror attacks by Hamas” and reiterated his call for “the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.”

“And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. Yet the toll on civilians continues to escalate. Entire families wiped out. Children traumatized and injured for life. People denied access to the very basics for human survival. A looming famine,” Guterres also said.

He reiterated, “Any assault on Rafah is unacceptable. It would inflict another surge of pain and misery when we need a surge in life-saving aid. It is time for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza.”

The UN chief also highlighted, “UNRWA remains the backbone of our operations in Gaza and a lifeline for Palestine refugees across the region. It needs full support and funding.”

Guterres stressed, “The only permanent way to end the cycle of violence and instability is through a two-state solution, Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.”

He continued, “The demographic and historical character of Jerusalem must be preserved, and the status quo at the Holy Sites must be upheld, in line with the special role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.”

On Sudan, the UN chief urged the international community to “intensify its push for peace, and call on the warring parties to agree on a lasting ceasefire. This should be followed by a political process that includes women’s and youth groups.”

“I pledge the full support of the United Nations,” he emphasized.

Prior to the opening of the Summit of the League of Arab States, the Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States. They discussed cooperation between their respective Organizations as well as the situation in the Middle East region, including the conflict in Gaza, as well as Sudan and Syria.

The Secretary-General also met with the H.E. Mr. Najib Mikati, the Prime Minister of Lebanon. The Secretary-General expressed his continued support for Lebanon and the Lebanese people. The Prime Minister of Lebanon and the Secretary-General discussed the situation in the country, including concerns in relation to the heightened tensions along the Blue Line. The also discussed refugee related issues, including UNRWA’s critical work.

( Source: United Nations )