UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, expressing his concern over the violations of international humanitarian law in the region. Guterres’ appeal comes as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, causing significant casualties and destruction. However, Israel has criticized the Secretary-General’s plea, arguing that it fails to acknowledge the aggression and attacks launched by Hamas. The Israeli government has pointed out the thousands of rockets fired by Hamas into Israeli territory, which have resulted in civilian casualties and damage. In response to Guterres’ call for a ceasefire, Israel insists on the necessity to defend its citizens and dismantle Hamas’ arsenal. The Security Council, meanwhile, remains deeply divided on the issue. While some members support Guterres’ efforts to de-escalate the situation and bring about a ceasefire, others argue for Israel’s right to self-defense and condemn Hamas’ actions. The disagreements within the Security Council highlight the complex nature of the conflict and the challenges in reaching a consensus on how to address the situation in Gaza. As the hostilities persist, the international community faces the daunting task of finding a diplomatic solution that balances the protection of civilian lives with the need for long-term stability and peace in the region.