UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said that there was no “better moment” for the Arab region to come together, adding that unity and solidarity would amplify the vital voice of the region and further boost Arab influence on the global stage, Al Jazeera reports.

In remarks to Arab leaders in Bahrain, Guterres reiterated his strong position in favour of a ceasefire in Gaza, saying that the death and destruction currently being meted out on the enclave must come to an end.

“Entire families wiped out. Children traumatised and injured for life. People denied access to the very basics for human survival. A looming famine […] It is time for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza,” he said at the Arab League summit.