During a press conference at the United Nations headquarters in New York, the leader of the UN emphasized the importance of taking tangible actions to achieve a two-state solution, in line with UN resolutions, international law, and past agreements.

He stated that despite numerous violent conflicts and years of unease and control, there has not been a successful establishment of a Palestinian state or assurance of safety for Israelis.

He stated that peace is necessary in every aspect in both the Middle East and globally. Waiting for it is not an option for our world.

Peace, the common thread

In his speech to the General Assembly yesterday, the UN leader discussed his goals for 2024. He emphasized the ongoing conflicts, divisions between nations, and growing polarization within societies, and emphasized the importance of peace as a unifying factor in addressing these complex global issues.

He stated that yesterday he gave an honest and realistic evaluation of the world. He emphasized that now is not the time to hold back.

Tackling the various “existential challenges” that the world is currently facing, including nuclear threats, the climate crisis, and the dangers of unregulated artificial intelligence, requires extensive efforts in all areas.

He stated that there needs to be a significant discussion between developed and developing nations, wealthy and emerging economies, and between the northern and southern, eastern and western regions.

Reforms needed

The Secretary-General has requested for changes in institutions, beginning with restructuring the Security Council and the Bretton Woods Institutions, which include the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Recognizing the change from a one dominant power to multiple powerful players in the world, he stressed the importance of implementing inclusive methods of international governance to avoid increasing potential dangers.

In the future, Mr. Guterres emphasized the upcoming Future Summit in September, recognizing the significance of the New Agenda for Peace, the SDG Stimulus, and the United Nations’ Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence.

He stressed the importance of adapting institutions to current times and upholding principles like honoring the UN Charter, international law, and international humanitarian law.

Situation in Gaza

Mr. Guterres showed special worry for current conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza while addressing urgent emergencies. He stated that the situation in both places is continuously deteriorating and that UN humanitarian efforts are being hindered by refusals of entry and obstacles such as the threat of gunfire.

“It is important to clarify that denying humanitarian access results in denying humanitarian aid to civilians,” he emphasized.

The Secretary-General also shared serious worries about reports that the Israeli military plans to prioritize Rafah.

“According to the speaker, half of the population in Gaza is currently squeezed into Rafah with no options for relocation. They are without houses and lacking in hope,” he urged for an urgent ceasefire for humanitarian purposes, the freeing of captives without conditions, and tangible efforts towards a two-state resolution in accordance with UN mandates and global regulations.

Peace is indispensable

Mr. Guterres emphasized that peace is a crucial necessity for both the Middle East and the rest of the world.

He stressed the importance of taking action, stating that the world cannot delay implementing the necessary changes.

, and Syria are

Conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Syria are ongoing.

In regards to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, where opposing military groups have been engaged in a violent war since April, resulting in severe harm to innocent civilians, the Secretary-General stated that there is no resolution to the conflict through military means.

He mentioned that the United Nations is collaborating with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), African Union (AU), and Arab League to implement a regional strategy for addressing the crisis.

Regarding the upcoming two-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine, Mr. Guterres stated that the UN remains committed to promoting peace in the country, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law.

DPRK missile launches

The Secretary-General strongly denounced the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) for violating sanctions and attempting to launch missiles or develop nuclear weapons in response to a question about missile launches and tensions in the region.

He emphasized the utmost importance of the DPRK adhering to the applicable Security Council resolutions. He also expressed his strong disapproval of the prolonged captivity of Japanese hostages by the country, without any updates for many years.

Future Summit results

When asked about what he expects from the Summit of the Future, Mr. Guterres said that the UN has put forth its suggestions and now it is the responsibility of the Member States to make decisions.

He expressed his desire for the Summit of the Future to endorse the main components of the New Agenda for Peace. Additionally, he hopes to see a comprehensive approach to prevention and significant actions taken regarding emerging weaponry and nuclear disarmament.

He also shared his desires for beneficial changes within the Security Council and emphasized the necessity of reform within the international financial system.

“We desire to recognize that our institutions are obsolete and require a more comprehensive and relevant approach to multilateralism in accordance with modern-day circumstances,” he stated.

Please access the complete transcript of the press conference by clicking on the provided link.

The source is the United Nations News.