United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire and protection of civilians in the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Gaza Strip.

Guterres spoke to reporters on Friday ahead of the six-month mark from the start of fighting, which falls on Sunday.

He condemned the October 7 Hamas-led terror attacks in Israel and called for the unconditional release of all hostages still held by Hamas and other armed groups.

The UN chief also accused Israel's military campaign of bringing "relentless death and destruction" to Palestinians in Gaza over the last six months.

He pointed out that more than half the population is facing catastrophic hunger. "Nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people," he added.

"Six months on, we are at the brink of mass starvation; of regional conflagration; of a total loss of faith in global standards and norms," Guterres said.

He concluded his remarks by saying, "It's time to step back from that brink --- to silence the guns, to ease the horrible suffering and to stop a potential famine before it is too late."