Barring Unrwa would deal a ‘terrible blow’ to Gaza, warns Guterres

UN secretary general Antonio Guterres condemned the killing of journalists and aid workers in Gaza and revealed that he had written to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to express his "profound concern" over proposed legislation that could block Unrwa's work in the region.

"The vast majority of those killed were part of the backbone of humanitarian relief operations in Gaza – Unrwa," Guterres stated. "In the midst of all the upheaval, Unrwa – more than ever – is indispensable. Unrwa – more than ever – is irreplaceable."

Guterres also "strongly condemned" violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza and reiterated his call for the release of captives held by Hamas.

"International law is unambiguous: civilians everywhere must be respected and protected, and their essential needs must be met, including through humanitarian assistance," he said. "No place is safe in Gaza, and no one is safe."

He warned that implementing the proposed legislation would likely "deal a terrible blow" to Gaza’s humanitarian response.