United Nations, Oct 7 (NationPress) “It is imperative to halt the ongoing hostilities in Gaza, Israel, and the surrounding region immediately,” urged Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as the second anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel approaches, an event he described as a “dark day etched in the minds” of many.

“We must put an end to the suffering of all. This is a humanitarian crisis of unimaginable proportions,” he stated on Monday while representatives from Hamas and Israel were engaged in negotiations in Egypt to seek a resolution to the conflict.

“Let us take a moment to remember all those who lost their lives and endured unimaginable violence,” he added.

Guterres emphasized that “the assailants brutally killed over 1,250 Israelis and foreigners. More than 250 individuals were abducted and taken into the Gaza Strip as hostages, including vulnerable groups like women, children, and the elderly.”

“It is crucial to release the hostages immediately and unconditionally,” Guterres remarked, addressing Hamas, whose actions initiated the conflict that has led to the loss of tens of thousands of lives.

Reports indicate that during the negotiations in Egypt, Hamas has agreed to release the remaining hostages.

The discussions revolved around US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace initiative aimed at resolving the conflict.

“Trump’s plan offers an opportunity that we must grasp to put an end to this tragic conflict,” Guterres noted.

“After enduring two years of anguish, we must now embrace hope,” he stated.

The fate of the negotiations, facilitated by Egyptian and Qatari intermediaries, appeared precarious on Monday. Although Hamas consented to release the hostages, other terms for a ceasefire, such as the disarmament of Hamas, remained unresolved.

In retaliation for the October 7 assault, Israel executed a large-scale military response against Hamas-controlled Gaza.

It is estimated that around 75,000 lives were lost in the retaliatory strikes, predominantly civilians, leaving vast areas of Gaza in ruins, with critical infrastructure including schools and hospitals devastated.

“On this solemn anniversary, let us commemorate all victims by advocating for the only viable path forward: a fair and enduring peace, where Israelis, Palestinians, and all people in the region coexist in security, dignity, and mutual respect,” Guterres concluded.