Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), began a news briefing at the UN headquarters, addressing the dire situation in Gaza. Guterres described the situation as more than a humanitarian crisis; it is a crisis of humanity. He condemned Israel’s aerial bombardments and ground operations, which have been hitting civilian areas, hospitals, refugee camps, mosques, churches, and UN facilities, including shelters. Guterres emphasised that no one is safe and called for the release of captives still held in Gaza.
The protection of civilians was emphasised as paramount, and Guterres expressed deep concern about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that are being witnessed. He reiterated his call for a humanitarian ceasefire, stating that no party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law.
