UN Secretary-General criticizes security council, describes situation in Gaza as moral stain
WORLD, July (YPA) -UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Wednesday for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip because the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave is “a moral stain on us all.”
Guterres said in a statement read by his chief of staff, Courtenay Rattray, that there is an urgent need for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire.
It was read at a meeting concerning the Middle East that was chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
Guterres noted that talks with Egypt, Qatar and the US to reach a deal to get a cease-fire are continuing with some reported progress.
“The parties must reach such a deal now. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is a moral stain on us all,” said the UN chief.
He warned that the humanitarian support system in Gaza is close to collapse and there is a complete breakdown of public order.
Turning to the West Bank, the UN chief said that the territory and Jerusalem face perilous conditions.
He also urged an end to the conflict and a solution to end Israeli occupation.
“And this terrible war must end,” said Guterres.
“We must refocus on finding a political solution that will end the occupation and resolve the conflict in line with international law, and relevant United Nations resolutions.”
@E.Y.M