Unity, Leadership & Vision Urged at Crucial Moment for Arab World – UN Chief | Press Conference

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for urgent action from Arab leaders to address what he described as a “crucial time” for the region, urging unity, vision, and concrete solutions to longstanding crises. “I am pleased to be in Baghdad once again, this time for this Summit of the League of Arab States in a crucial moment for the region,” Guterres told reporters in Baghdad today (17 May). He said, “The ground is moving under our feet in this region. But the tectonic shifts are not a force of nature. The problems of violence and volatility are the results of concrete choices of people. And the solutions are also in the hands of decisionmakers.” Addressing ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises, Guterres said, “We know the people of the Arab world demand and deserve a better future.” He highlighted the situations in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, urging respect for ceasefires, inclusive political transitions, and peace efforts. “People in every corner of the Arab world... seek the same as those anywhere - a future of justice, dignity, human rights, security, peace and hope.” Guterres placed particular emphasis on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, describing it as central to the region’s “unrealized hope.” He reiterated support for a two-State solution: “Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States – is not just a vision. It is a necessity.” “The situation for Palestinians is beyond description … beyond atrocious … and beyond inhumane,” he said. “A policy of siege and starvation makes a mockery of international law. The blockade against humanitarian aid must end immediately.” Closing his remarks, the Secretary-General urged decisive leadership: “This is a moment for moral clarity and concrete action. The choices ahead will shape the region for years to come. We can and must rise to this moment with courage, unity, and vision. I am convinced that the Arab world has the strength, the wisdom, and the opportunity to lead the way toward peace, dignity, and a future worthy of all its people.”


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