UN Secretary-General Expresses Concern over Israel’s Announcement to Suspend the Operations of International Non-Governmental Organizations in Palestine
El Gisr – Exclusive
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the Israeli authorities’ announcement to suspend the operations of a number of international non-governmental organizations in the occupied Palestinian territory, calling for the reversal of this decision.
Secretary-General Guterres stressed that the work of international NGOs is indispensable to life-saving humanitarian operations, warning that suspending their activities risks undermining the fragile progress achieved during the ceasefire.
This came in a press statement issued by UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, who said that the Israeli announcement comes in addition to previous restrictions that have already delayed the entry of essential food supplies, medical aid, shelter materials, and hygiene items into the Gaza Strip.
The spokesperson noted that this latest measure will further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians. He stated: “The Secretary-General emphasizes that Israel, under its obligations pursuant to international humanitarian law, must allow and facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief to all civilians in need.”
The spokesperson also conveyed the Secretary-General’s affirmation that all humanitarian partners must be able to operate safely and in full accordance with humanitarian principles.
