United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced deep concern over Israel’s decision to take control of Gaza, warning that the move represents a “dangerous escalation” with far-reaching consequences for millions of Palestinians.
In a strongly worded statement, Guterres stressed that Gaza must remain an integral part of a future Palestinian state, cautioning that any unilateral measures risk undermining prospects for peace and further destabilizing the region.
“This marks a dangerous escalation, deepening consequences for millions of Palestinians who are already facing severe humanitarian challenges,” the UN chief said. “Gaza must not be severed from the political and territorial unity of the Palestinian people.”
The Secretary-General also reiterated calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and unfettered humanitarian access to Gaza, where the population has been struggling with shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies amid ongoing conflict.
Israel’s decision has drawn sharp criticism from various governments and human rights organizations, who argue that the move violates international law and undermines the two-state solution framework backed by the UN and much of the international community.
The development comes against a backdrop of escalating violence, renewed rocket attacks, and rising civilian casualties, prompting urgent appeals from the UN and other global actors for restraint and a return to dialogue.
