“This is a very important moment, especially for those civilians who are paying a huge price for this protracted conflict and the alarming scale of its escalation,” he said.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres held a joint news conference with Prime Minister Luis Montenegro in the Portuguese capital, a day after Hezbollah fighters and Israeli forces announced a cease-fire lasting more than a year.
Honor the contract
He said that it is important that those who signed the agreement fully respect it. He said it would pave the way for a political solution to the crisis in Lebanon.
“At the same time, I can assure you that UNIFIL, the United Nations peacekeeping service in Lebanon, is ready to contribute to the verification of this ceasefire with full commitment,” he said.
The Secretary-General emphasized adherence to international law to maintain peace.
He said, “It is clear that when we see an increase in conflicts and the sense of impunity is strong, different powers, even small and medium powers, can do whatever they want without thinking about the consequences. As a result, the security of their country and neighbors may be threatened.”
Peace in Gaza, Ukraine and beyond
Referring to other conflicts, he emphasized the need to achieve a just peace in Ukraine with respect for the UN Charter, international law and the country’s territorial integrity.
The UN chief reiterated his call for peace in Gaza. He called for an immediate cease-fire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access to a population “who have been subjected to the likes of which I have never seen in my entire career.”
The joint press conference was held after the conclusion of the three-day Tenth Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) held in the coastal city of Cascais.
UNAOC is a platform for intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation. Its work focuses on five key priority areas, including youth, education, media, migration and the role of women as peace brokers.