New York: United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed the ceasefire declared between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas, following 11 days of rocket and air attacks, which have left more than 240 reportedly dead and thousands injured, the majority in the occupied Palestinian enclave of Gaza.
According to latest news reports, at least 232 Palestinians, including more than 60 children have been killed since violence erupted across the Gaza-southern Israeli border last week.
Meanwhile, at least 12 were killed in Israel, as Hamas and other extremist groups unleashed indiscriminate rocket fire, sometimes deep into Israeli territory.
"I commend Egypt and Qatar for the efforts carried out, in close coordination with the UN, to help restore calm to Gaza and Israel," the UN chief added, calling on all sides to observe the ceasefire.
Guterres said it was essential for the wider international community to work with the UN, to develop an integrated, robust package of support for a swift, sustainable reconstruction and recovery, that supports the Palestinian people and strengthens their institutions.
"I stress that Israeli and Palestinian leaders have a responsibility beyond the restoration of calm to start a serious dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict," he said.
He said Gaza is an integral part of the future Palestinian State and no effort should be spared to bring about real national reconciliation that ends the division.
Hamas has controlled the enclave since winning elections in 2006 and driving our the rival Fatah faction, which holds power in the West Bank.
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