UN welcomes recovery of remains of last Israeli hostage in Gaza

UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 26 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations on Monday welcomed reports of the recovery of the remains of the last Israeli hostage in Gaza and called for the full implementation of the ceasefire arrangements.

"We welcome reports (of) that development and extend our condolences to his family. The full implementation of the ceasefire arrangements in Gaza is absolutely critical," said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"The secretary-general urges all parties to move forward in good faith and without delay with subsequent phases, facilitate sustained and unhindered humanitarian access, including through the Rafah crossing, and uphold international humanitarian law," he told a daily press briefing.

The United Nations will continue to support the full implementation of the agreement, he said.

Guterres urges once again all stakeholders to establish a credible political path forward toward ending the Israeli occupation, recognizing the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people, leading to a two-state solution, in line with international law and UN resolutions, said the spokesman. ■