Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to the fear and suffering experienced by residents of Gaza.
Guterres' statement comes shortly after a ruling by the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ), which mandated that Israel halt its ground attacks in Rafah immediately. Emphasizing the binding nature of ICJ decisions, Guterres insisted that Israel comply with international law.
"The Israeli authorities must allow and facilitate the prompt, safe, and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need, and all transit points must be open," Guterres said, as conveyed by UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
The ongoing three-week offensive in Rafah has drawn global outrage, particularly after an airstrike on Sunday, May 26, in a refugee camp resulted in at least 45 Palestinian deaths. The Gaza Ministry of Health reports that attacks have incapacitated most hospitals and health centers in Rafah, with only Tal al Sultan Hospital remaining operational, focusing on obstetrics and women's health.
The closures of Abu Yusuf al Najjar Hospital, Abu Walid General Clinic, Rafah Hospital, Al Kuwait Specialist Hospital, Indonesia Hospital, and Tal al Sultan Clinic have severely restricted medical services, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
In a poignant moment, a Palestinian mother, who lost her brother and children in the attack, expressed her grief and condemnation, hoping for divine justice against America and Israel for their actions.
Hamas, the Islamic Struggle Movement of Palestine, also condemned the attacks. In a statement broadcast via radio, Hamas called on the international community to hold Israel accountable for its increasing violence and occupation of Palestinian territories.
Martin Griffiths, the UN's Chief Coordinator for Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs, decried the attacks on Palestinian refugee camps in Rafah. He emphasized the need to protect civilians and facilitate their access to safe areas. Griffiths highlighted the significant challenges in delivering humanitarian aid due to ongoing hostilities, specifically mentioning difficulties at the Kerem Shalom crossing.
Griffiths also took to social media, noting that recent airstrikes had killed dozens, primarily women and children. He called for urgent measures to ensure civilian safety and improve humanitarian aid delivery.
The brutal airstrikes in Rafah, despite the ICJ's directive for an immediate halt, underline the dire situation and the urgent need for international intervention to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of Gaza's residents.
