As the Israel-Hamas conflict marks its second anniversary, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a renewed plea for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The war, which erupted on October 7, 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians and left more than 1,000 Israelis dead or injured. Guterres described the situation as a ‘humanitarian catastrophe on a scale that defies comprehension,’ urging all parties to ‘end the suffering for all’ and prioritize civilian lives and futures. The conflict has not only destabilized the Middle East but also strained relations among Israel’s allies, who continue to advocate for a resolution. The United States has proposed a new plan currently under review by Hamas, which Guterres characterized as a critical opportunity to end the tragedy. He emphasized the necessity of a permanent ceasefire and a credible political process to prevent further bloodshed and foster peace, reiterating the UN’s unwavering commitment to supporting these efforts. Momentum for a two-state solution has grown, with several nations formally recognizing Palestine. However, ongoing shelling in Gaza exacerbates what the UN calls a ‘full-scale humanitarian crisis.’ In response, the UN has allocated $9 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to sustain fuel supplies for essential services in Gaza. Despite a slight reduction in airstrikes, shelling and gunfire persist, with 21 killed and 96 injured in a single day. Humanitarian efforts, including the delivery of wheat flour to bakeries, have provided some relief, with bakeries producing 100,000 bundles of bread daily. As the conflict enters its third year, global voices express hope for peace before another grim anniversary passes.