GENEVA, October 17, 2025 (WAFA) – The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, on Friday urged all parties to place human rights at the center of efforts to rebuild Gaza and establish a lasting peace, stressing that the ceasefire should pave the way for sustainable security.

Türk emphasized that while there is global relief at signs of an end to the war and humanitarian suffering, significant work remains to ensure lasting peace, justice, and accountability for serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law over the past two years. 

He called for the full inclusion of all Palestinians in decision-making processes, regardless of age, gender, or disability, and the restoration of access to food, clean water, housing, medical care, and education, alongside the protection of children’s rights to play and safety.

The High Commissioner outlined that human rights must guide political processes and the pursuit of a two-state solution in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions, General Assembly mandates, Human Rights Council recommendations, the New York Declaration, and relevant International Court of Justice advisory opinions.

Türk stressed the importance of monitoring and reporting violations to support both current and future accountability measures, prevent impunity, and deter further violations, while protecting those reporting from threats or retaliation.

He further underscored the necessity of unrestricted access for humanitarian aid, international staff, journalists, protection workers, and human rights observers, ensuring they can operate freely throughout Gaza.

M.N