UN Secretary-General is Very Concerned about Israel Suspending NGO Operations in Gaza

WASHINTON - United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is deeply concerned about the announcement by Israeli authorities suspending the operations of a number of international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the occupied Palestinian territories, Gaza, a UN spokesman said on Friday.

Guterres called for the policy to be reversed, stressing that international non-governmental organizations have a very important role in life-saving humanitarian efforts.

According to him, the suspension of the operation risks undermining the fragile progress that has been achieved during the ceasefire.

UN Secretary-General's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the announcement followed previous restrictions imposed by Israel and had led to delays in the entry of essential supplies into Gaza, including food, medical aid, hygiene supplies, and shelter materials.

"This latest action will further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis facing the Palestinian people," Dujarric said.

Guterres emphasized that under international humanitarian law, Israel is obliged to allow and facilitate a rapid and unimpeded passage for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to all civilians in need.

The UN Secretary-General also reiterated that all humanitarian partners must be able to operate safely and in accordance with humanitarian principles.