UN Secretary-General described Israel’s plan to occupy Gaza as a disastrous move that will worsen the humanitarian crisis and regional tensions. He called for an immediate ceasefire and full access to humanitarian aid.

Why it matters:

An Israeli blockade of Gaza has deepened the humanitarian disaster, and undermined  peace in the region. It risks further destabilizing an already volatile conflict and could ignite broader regional tensions.

The big picture:

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Friday strongly condemned Israel’s decision to occupy the Gaza Strip and forcibly displace nearly one million Palestinians from Gaza City and northern areas to the south, calling it a “crime against humanity.”

Israel’s occupation of Gaza poses a serious threat to civilians’ lives, increases displacement, and worsens the humanitarian situation.

What he’s saying:

Guterres :“occupation of Gaza endangers the lives of civilians, and increases displacement, killings, and destruction.”

“Gaza is an integral part of the Palestinian territory, and without ending the occupation and implementing a two-state solution, sustainable peace is not possible.”

He called for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access, and unconditional release of hostages and warned Israel to end its illegal presence in the occupied territories.