Gaza: The UN Secretary-General has shared concerns on the latest developments in the occupied West Bank, including Israel’s launch of large-scale military operations in Jenin, Tulkarm and Tubas governorates, and called for an immediate cessation of these operations.
The military operations involving the use of airstrikes, resulted in casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure. António Guterres strongly condemned the loss of lives, including of children.
Guterres calls on Israel to comply with its relevant obligations under international humanitarian law and to take measures to protect civilians and ensure their safety. Guterres urges security forces to exercise maximum restraint and use lethal force only when it is strictly unavoidable to protect life.
“All those injured must have access to medical care, and humanitarian workers must be able to reach everyone in need. These dangerous developments are fueling an already explosive situation in the occupied West Bank and further undermining the Palestinian Authority,” he added.
The Secretary-General is also extremely concerned by the recent dangerous and provocative acts and statements by an Israeli Minister at the Holy Sites in Jerusalem. António Guterres stresses the importance of maintaining the status quo at the Sites.
UN stressed that only an end to the occupation and a return to a meaningful political process that will establish a two-state solution will bring an end to the violence. The United Nations will continue to work with all parties towards this end, to seek a de-escalation of the current situation and promote stability in the region.
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