UN Chief Slams Israeli Threats to UNRWA, Demands Unhindered Aid

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a powerful call for a long-term political resolution to the conflict in Gaza, asserting that any sustainable solution must be rooted in international law and lead to the establishment of a "federated, internationally recognized Palestinian government." Speaking at the annual meeting of the UN Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People on Tuesday, Guterres emphasized that military action alone cannot secure lasting peace.

Unrestricted Humanitarian Aid Access Guterres demanded the "rapid and unhindered" passage of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, highlighting the dire conditions facing millions of civilians. He stressed that humanitarian assistance must be prioritized as a fundamental necessity while the international community works toward a broader diplomatic framework.

Defense of UNRWA Amid Israeli Legislative Threats The Secretary-General expressed his "full and unwavering support" for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). He issued a sharp condemnation of recent legislation passed by the Israeli Knesset aimed at dismantling the agency’s operations. Guterres warned that these laws would cripple UNRWA's ability to fulfill its vital mandate and provide essential services to millions of refugees.

"The public threats made by Israeli officials against UNRWA staff are entirely unacceptable and must be reversed," Guterres stated firmly. He reminded the international community that Israel, as a member state, is legally obligated to respect the United Nations, its agencies, and the privileges and immunities they enjoy.

The Path Forward Guterres reiterated that the only viable path to stability in the region is a political process that addresses the root causes of the conflict. By advocating for a solution that leads to sovereign Palestinian governance, the UN chief signaled a rejection of any temporary security arrangements that do not honor the rights of the Palestinian people as defined under international legal standards.