Guterres: Speed of killing, destruction in Gaza is unmatched by any previous war

The 193-member UN General Assembly officially commenced its first day on Tuesday.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the General Assembly in New York, condemning the ongoing situation in Gaza, which he described as a "perpetual nightmare" that poses a threat to the entire region. He reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire.

Speaking to leaders of the 193-member states, Guterres stressed that "Gaza is a perpetual nightmare that threatens to drag the entire region into chaos, starting with Lebanon."

He expressed deep concern over the alarming levels of violence and humanitarian suffering, stating that the speed of killing and destruction in Gaza is unlike any war he has witnessed.

In addition to his remarks on Gaza, Guterres noted that UN peacekeeping missions are operating in areas where there is no peace to maintain, highlighting the challenges faced by these missions.

He also remarked on the increasing number of countries falling into the realm of geopolitical divisions.