Guterres stressed the pressing need for an immediate cease-fire after over seven months of conflict and the unconditional release of all hostages, and also called for more protection for Gaza.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Guterres was in shocked about footage of deaths and wounded, including many young children, after the Israeli Defense Forces bombed tents of displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza.

‘As you have said before, horror and suffering must stop immediately,’ the statement said.

The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is now compounded by the unconscionable prospect of a man-made famine.

The UNSG recalled recent orders by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) calling on Israel to halt its military offensive in Rafah, where over half of Gaza’s population remained earlier this month.

According to Guterres, Israel must allow, facilitate and enable the immediate, safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian supplies to those in need.

The UN chief also urged that all crossing points be kept open in accordance with UNSC´s resolutions.

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