Independent Palestinian State Is a Fundamental Right, Says UN Secretary-General
Gaza | November 26, 2025 | DeccanLive.com
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has said that Palestinians have the same right to dignity, justice and self-determination as any other people in the world. He made it clear that the creation of an independent Palestinian state is a basic and non-negotiable right.
His message was delivered on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, and was read out by the Chief of his office, Cortney Rattray.
Guterres called for the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from all illegally occupied Palestinian territories. He said Gaza has faced severe Israeli aggression over the past two years, resulting in the deaths of more than 70,000 people, injuries to hundreds of thousands, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and increasing hunger, disease and psychological trauma.
He added that people in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, are also suffering due to Israeli military operations, growing settlements, demolitions, forced evictions and settler violence.
Referring to the ceasefire that took place in October, Guterres said it brought a small ray of hope. He welcomed the UN Security Council’s decision on Gaza and appreciated the efforts of mediators, especially Egypt, Qatar, Turkey and the United States. He urged all sides to fully follow the agreement and turn diplomatic efforts into real progress.
Guterres stressed that humanitarian aid must reach Gaza without any obstruction and on a large scale. He said Israel’s responsibilities are clearly defined under the International Court of Justice. He also appealed to UN member states to support a $4 billion emergency fund for Palestinian areas.
He pointed out that UNRWA remains the main lifeline for millions of Palestinians and urged the world to continue supporting its work in Gaza, the West Bank and refugee camps in the region.
The UN chief also noted that more journalists have been killed in the last two years of this conflict than in any other war since World War II. Many humanitarian workers, including UN and UNRWA staff, have also lost their lives.
Ending his statement, Guterres said that fighting for justice for Palestine is the same as defending human rights and international law worldwide. He assured that the United Nations will never step back from supporting the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination. He called for global solidarity to be turned into real action so that hope and peace can grow again.
