UN chief urges urgent action for peace at annual Peace Bell Ceremony

By Rabia Iclal Turan

WASHINGTON (AA) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday warned that “peace is under siege” as he marked the International Day of Peace at the annual Peace Bell Ceremony in New York.

“Eighty years ago, the United Nations emerged from the ashes of war to pursue the cause of peace. That mission is the beating heart of our organization. But today, peace is under siege,” Guterres said at the event, held each year at UN headquarters.

He cited the multiplication of conflicts worldwide, growing civilian suffering, and violations of human rights and international law that he said “disgrace our common humanity.”

“We must act – to silence the guns and amplify diplomacy. We must act – to protect civilians and uphold the UN Charter,” he stressed.

Ringing the Peace Bell, a symbol cast from coins donated by representatives from over 60 countries, Guterres invited participants to a moment of silence, calling it a reminder that “even the smallest contributions can forge something enduring.”