UN Chief Urges End To Gaza Siege Amid Deepening Humanitarian Crisis
Tensions have risen sharply in Gaza, as United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced his alarm, saying he was “deeply distressed” by Israel’s announcement of a full siege on the Gaza Strip.
“The humanitarian situation in Gaza was extremely dire before these hostilities. Now, it will only deteriorate exponentially,” Guterres emphasised.
He didn’t shy away from referencing the historical context of the situation: “This most recent violence does not come in a vacuum,” he said, noting the “56-year-long occupation and no political end in sight”.
Reaffirming the UN’s position, Guterres reiterated calls for a negotiated peace and a two-state solution, asserting that “it is time to end this vicious circle of bloodshed, hatred and polarisation”.
Earlier in the week, Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, set in motion a severe directive, implementing a total siege on Gaza, which includes cut-offs to electricity and bans on food and fuel.
As the circumstances continue to darken, Guterres is urgently calling for all parties to grant the UN access, ensuring that vital humanitarian aid can be delivered to the Palestinians trapped in Gaza.
What do you make of these new developments?
READ NEXT: Watch: Isabelle Bonnici Wins Mvintage Woman Of The Year And Shares Honour With All Victims Suffering Injustice
