UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered his strongest criticism yet of Israel's military actions in Gaza on Tuesday, denouncing as "unacceptable" the killing of Palestinians seeking food aid amid worsening humanitarian conditions. The remarks followed reports of over 338 deaths and 2,800 injuries at non-UN food distribution sites since late May.
"The secretary-general condemns the loss of lives and injuries of civilians in Gaza who are once again being shot at while seeking food," said Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq. "It is unacceptable."
Guterres called for an immediate independent investigation into the incidents, which occurred at heavily militarized aid hubs supported by Israel and the U.S. The Gaza Ministry of Health reported mounting casualties as desperate residents risk gunfire to access scarce supplies.
The condemnation highlights growing global concern over Israel's conduct in the conflict, with international observers warning of potential violations of humanitarian law. Analysts note the statement marks a significant escalation in UN rhetoric as starvation risks intensify in blockaded Gaza.
