NEW YORK — UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that wars launched over the past decade have caused severe and lasting harm, with civilians bearing much of the cost.
Addressing the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Guterres said wars had also brought serious human rights violations. He stressed that military power alone cannot create lasting peace or economic stability.
Hunger Used as a Weapon
Guterres also warned against the use of hunger as a weapon during conflicts.
He said the international community must learn from the human cost of recent wars. In his view, peace requires political solutions, international cooperation and stronger efforts to protect civilians.
The UN chief has repeatedly called for stronger multilateral action as conflicts continue in several regions.
Guterres Highlights Palestine
Guterres also drew attention to the situation in the Palestinian territories.
He described the destruction in Palestinian areas as unprecedented. He further warned that the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied territories was raising concerns about ethnic cleansing.
Guterres has also continued to support a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. Reuters reported that he renewed this position during his final General Assembly address.
Call for Security Council Reform
The UN secretary-general also said reform of the Security Council is necessary.
Calls for reform have grown as member states debate how the UN can better respond to current global crises. The issue remains part of wider discussions on improving the international system and strengthening global cooperation.
The 81st General Assembly session is taking place in New York from September 2026, with world leaders attending the high-level debate.
