UN Declares Ceasefire in Gaza ‘Long Overdue,’ Urges Immediate Action

The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, describing the situation as dire and a truce as long overdue to prevent further loss of life.

The United Nations states that a cease-fire in Gaza is “long overdue,” as the number of Palestinians affected has exceeded 45,000.

“The ongoing collective punishment of the Palestinian people cannot be justified,” stated Assistant Secretary-General Mohamed Khaled Khiari on Wednesday. “The persistent bombardment of Gaza by Israeli forces is appalling.”

After months of stalemate, Israel and Hamas seem to be nearing a ceasefire agreement to bring an end to the 14-month conflict on the strip.

In recent weeks, senior officials from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt have renewed their mediation efforts and noted an increased willingness among the conflicting parties to finalize a deal.

Hamas officials have expressed a readiness to demonstrate greater “flexibility” concerning the timeline for an Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel’s defense minister mentioned this week that an agreement is nearer than ever before.

Despite the hopeful outlook, Khiari reported that violence persists and continues to claim innocent lives. He stated that in just this week, at least 69 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed during four Israeli attacks on schools.

Officials from all parties have advised that essential details still need to be finalized. However, there is a prevailing sense of optimism that has been absent for many months.