New York, Oct 06 (V7N) — On the one-year anniversary of Hamas attacks on Israel, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres renewed his call for an immediate cease-fire, the release of hostages, and efforts to alleviate the suffering of people across the Middle East. His remarks emphasized the need for both sides of the conflict and other countries in the region to respect one another and work towards a peaceful coexistence.

Guterres condemned the October 7 attack, which claimed the lives of more than 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals, including children and women. He described the brutal violence, noting that many victims were simply going about their daily lives. Additionally, more than 250 people, including many women and children, were taken hostage during the attack.

The UN chief expressed deep sympathy for the families of the hostages, saying, "The pain they go through every day is unimaginable." He called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and urged Hamas to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross access to those held.

Guterres highlighted the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the growing impact of the conflict on Lebanon, stressing that the region had been engulfed in violence and bloodshed since October 7. He urged the international community to stand in solidarity with the victims and called for renewed efforts to establish peace, restore international law, and bring justice to all those affected by the conflict.

In his concluding remarks, Guterres stated, "It is time to release the hostages, time to freeze the guns, and time to end the suffering that has engulfed the region."

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