Speaking at the Arabic nations at the Arabic nations on the situation in the Middle East and the reconstruction of Gaza in Cairo, António Guterres praised the efforts led by Arabic to mobilize the support of the resumption of Gaza.
He stressed that the reconstruction of the territory ravaged by the war must be guided by principles that respect international law and prevent new cycles of violence.
“The real basis of recovery in Gaza will be more than concrete and steel,” he said.
“It will be dignity, self -determination and security. This means remaining faithful to the basis of international law. This means rejecting any form of ethnic cleaning. And that means forging a political solution. “”
Essential political framework
Mr. Guterres stressed that reconstruction efforts cannot be separated from the broader political situation.
“End of the immediate crisis is not enough. We need a clear political framework that lays the foundations for the recovery, reconstruction and stability of Gaza, “he said.
Recognizing Israel’s security problems, he added that there should be a long -term Israeli military presence in Gaza.
Unprecedented destruction
The war in Gaza left an unprecedented level of destruction with around 51 million tonnes of rubble that cover the landscape where the animated districts have once prospered.
According to a new assessment of evaluation of the Damage and needs of the United Nations of 60% of houses – amounting to some 292,000 – and 65% of the roads were destroyed, through the enclave of approximately 360 square kilometers.
Working with the Palestinian authorities, the United Nations development agencies and the environment and non -governmental organizations examine how to secure the rubble in complete safety so that families can rebuild. The United Nations teams are based on experiences similar to Mosul, Iraq and the Syrian cities of Aleppo and Latakie, all decimated by war.
UN agencies as well as partners, including the World Bank, estimate that $ 53 billion will be necessary for recovery and reconstruction.
The ceasefire must hold
The humanitarian conditions still disastrous, Mr. Guterres warned that renewed hostilities would plunge millions of people into suffering and more destabilize the region.
“We must avoid the resumption of hostilities at all costs,” he urged, calling on both parties to maintain their commitments under the cease-fire and hostage agreement, and to resume negotiations without delay.
“All hostages must be released-immediately, unconditionally and in a worthy manner,” he said, adding that the release of Palestinian prisoners must be carried out under the terms of the agreement and also in a worthy manner.
“The parties must ensure human treatment for all those detained under their power.”
Ensure unhindered help
The Secretary -General stressed that the importance of humanitarian aid for civilians in need in Gaza, calling for the elimination of all obstacles to help in delivery.
“Humanitarian aid is not negotiable. It must flow without obstacle, “he said, also urging donors to ensure adequate funding.
He applauded the dedication of the United Nations staff and all other humanitarian workers by providing essential services in the most difficult circumstances, attractive the urgent and complete support of the United Nations Rescue and Work Agency (UNRWA)), including financial support.
Climbing in the West Bank
Beyond Gaza, Mr. Guterres expressed his alarm in the face of the increase in violence in the West Bank, where Israeli security forces have launched large-scale operations, including air strikes and also the deployment of tanks.
“More than 40,000 Palestinians were forcibly moved last month – the largest trip to the West Bank in decades. Meanwhile, demolitions, expansions and settlement extensions continue, the violence of the colonists is increasing, “he noted.
He called for an urgent de -escalation of the situation and the cessation of unilateral actions, in particular the expansion of regulations and threats of annexation.
“Israel, as occupying power, must comply with all of its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law,” said Guterres.
In addition, the Palestinian Authority must be supported to govern effectively and “do so in accordance with its own obligations under international law”.
Two -state solution the only path
The UN chief reiterated that a two -state solution remains the only viable path to sustainable peace.
“The only way to sustainable peace is one where two states-Israel and Palestine-live side by side in peace and security, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, with Jerusalem as the capital of the two states,” he said.
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