The United Nations spokesman conveyed the Secretary-General’s condemnation of the continued loss of life in Gaza, including among women and children, “as we witness another devastating strike by Israel on the Al-Taba’een School in Gaza City.”
UN spokesman Farhan Haq pointed out that the school shelters hundreds of displaced Palestinian families, and that dozens of deaths have occurred in light of “the continuing terror, displacement and suffering in Gaza.” In his daily press conference, Haq said that the Secretary-General deplores the failure to implement the provisions of Security Council Resolution No. 2735 related to the immediate ceasefire.
Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the mediation efforts made by the leaders of the United States, Egypt and Qatar. He urged the two sides to rejoin the negotiations and complete the ceasefire agreement.
The Secretary-General renewed his urgent call for an immediate ceasefire. He stressed the need to ensure the protection of civilians and safe, unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza and all parts of it.
The Secretary-General stressed the need to adhere – at all times – to international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction between targets, proportionality, and taking precautionary measures during attacks.
