António Guterres Instagram – I wrote to the Security Council invoking Article 99 because of the high risk of the total collapse of the humanitarian support system in Gaza, with devastating consequences.
There is clearly, in my view, a serious risk of aggravating existing threats to the maintenance of international peace and security.
The @unitednations is totally committed to stay and deliver for the people of Gaza, but under current conditions on the ground, the fulfilment of our humanitarian mandate has become impossible. Even if sufficient supplies were permitted into Gaza, intense bombardment and hostilities, and Israeli restrictions on movement, fuel shortages, and interrupted communications, make it impossible for UN agencies and their partners to reach most people in need.
I again and unreservedly condemn the terror attacks by Hamas, and I am appalled by the reports of sexual violence. At the same time, the brutality perpetrated by Hamas can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.
International humanitarian law cannot be applied selectively. It is binding on all parties equally at all times, and the obligation to observe it does not depend on reciprocity.
The people of Gaza are looking into the abyss.
I urge the Security Council to spare no effort to push for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, for the protection of civilians and the urgent delivery of lifesaving aid.
📷: UN Photo/Loey Felipe | Posted on 09/Dec/2023 00:37:06
