UN Chief Guterres: Israel’s Escalating Violence Threatens Global Peace

Kokcha News Agency: In a speech to the UN Security Council, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted the escalating violence in the occupied Palestinian territories, particularly in Gaza, and its implications for global peace. Guterres stated that Israel’s relentless attacks since October 7, 2023, have worsened the humanitarian crisis and threatened regional and global security.

Guterres described the situation in Gaza as “morally and legally indefensible,” emphasizing that countless Palestinian civilians and remaining hostages are trapped under relentless bombardment, deprived of food, water, electricity, and medicine. He stressed that the scale of human suffering cannot be adequately conveyed, and the continued disregard for UN resolutions, violations of international humanitarian law, and the culture of impunity are eroding collective credibility.

The UN chief also criticized Israel’s recent attack on Qatar, which disrupted Qatar’s mediation efforts for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Guterres noted that the attack not only violated Qatar’s sovereignty but also threatened the norms and mechanisms of diplomacy and conflict resolution.

Guterres expressed concern over Israel’s expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank, particularly the approval of the “E1” area, which, if implemented, would divide the West Bank and eliminate the territorial integrity of a future Palestinian state. He reiterated that Israel’s settlements are not just a political issue but a clear violation of international law.

The UN Secretary-General also pointed out the existential crisis facing the Palestinian Authority, citing Israel’s financial, political, and institutional pressures that have undermined its ability to function. He called for urgent international support to stabilize the Palestinian Authority and ensure its role as a peace partner.

Guterres emphasized the need to reverse dangerous trends on the ground, urging Israel to immediately halt settlement activities and heed the calls of the International Court of Justice to end its illegal occupation of Palestinian territories.