Overview

• Calling Gaza's devastation the worst he has seen, António Guterres pressed for a permanent ceasefire, unconditional release of hostages, full humanitarian access, and a renewed push for a two-state solution.
• He declined to legally characterize Israel's conduct as genocide, saying such determinations fall outside his authority.
• Israel has launched a ground operation in Gaza and instructed civilians to move south, while many Palestinians report they cannot relocate due to cost and uncertainty.
• Guterres warned of a creeping annexation in the West Bank and urged governments not to be intimidated by Israeli threats as reports indicate roughly 10 countries are preparing to recognize Palestinian statehood at a UN gathering.
• He highlighted severe UN funding shortfalls and an internal UN80 cost-cutting drive of about 15 percent, while also warning that global climate goals are nearing failure with COP30 approaching.