UN Chief Antonio Guterres calls for ceasefire in Gaza

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Say condemned the starvation inside Gaza as a “moral outrage.” He called for an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, speaking on the Egyptian side of the border not far from the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Despite warnings of a potential disaster, Israel plans to launch a ground assault in Rafah where more than half of Gaza’s population has sought refuge. Guterres emphasized the worsening situation for Palestinian civilians and hostages in the region if the assault continues.

Following the U.N. Security Council’s failure to reach a consensus on a resolution supporting an immediate and sustained cease-fire, Guterres highlighted the difficulties in getting aid into Gaza, partially blaming Israel for blocking relief efforts.

Hamas is reportedly holding hostages and remains of individuals taken in a previous attack, further escalating tensions in the region. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned against an Israeli ground assault on Rafah, stating it would be a mistake and unnecessary in defeating Hamas.

Despite warnings, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains determined to carry out the offensive to destroy Hamas, targeting their stronghold in Rafah. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a significant number of casualties and widespread destruction, displacing a large portion of Gaza’s population.