UN urges halt to fighting as civilian deaths rise in Gaza, Lebanon and West Bank

Violence and civilian casualties are escalating across the Middle East, according to United Nations agencies that released a joint assessment on Friday. The report documents a surge in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza alongside renewed hostilities in Lebanon and the West Bank, noting that the intensity of the fighting has led to a marked increase in injuries and deaths among non‑combatants in all three territories.

In response, UN Secretary‑General António Guterres called for an immediate halt to the hostilities, stating that “the fighting must stop.” The Secretary‑General urged all parties to observe international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and pursue diplomatic avenues to de‑escalate the conflict, emphasizing that continued violence threatens regional stability and undermines humanitarian efforts.