UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire and the release of the captives from Gaza this evening (Monday), but at the same time, he condemned Hamas for rocket fire and acts of terrorism against Israel.
"The crisis in Gaza has become a global humanitarian catastrophe. The escalating war is shaking the Middle East and destroying the lives of innocent civilians. Israeli military forces are hitting civilians, hospitals, refugee camps, mosques, and even UN institutions," said Guterres. "At the same time, Hamas is using civilians as human shields and continues to indiscriminately fire rockets at Israel. I condemn the horrifying acts of terror by Hamas since October 7 and reiterate my call for the immediate release of the captives from Gaza without conditions. Nothing justifies kidnapping, attacks, and harming civilians."
In his view, "the defense of civilians is more important than anything else. I am disturbed by the violations of international humanitarian law. Gaza is becoming a cemetery for children – hundreds of children are killed or injured every day, and even members of the media and UN staff are killed at a rate not seen in decades. I salute all those who continue their work in the area despite the clear risk to their lives. However, the death toll highlights the importance of an immediate ceasefire. Everyone must work to end the ongoing suffering and increase humanitarian aid to the innocent civilians in Gaza."
