United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres released a statement on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, describing the current period as one of the “darkest chapters” in Palestinian history. Guterres expressed horror at the widespread death and destruction in the region, noting the overwhelming pain, anguish, and heartache.
He specifically condemned the October 7 attack and emphasized that it cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. The Secretary-General extended sincere condolences to the numerous families grieving for their loved ones, including UN family members who lost their lives in Gaza, marking the largest loss of staff in the organization’s history.