UN Chief Warns Situation in Occupied West Bank Is Out of Control
ISTANBUL — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Thursday that conditions in the occupied West Bank have reached an alarming level, with increasing violence threatening Palestinian communities and their continued presence on their land.
Speaking to reporters, Guterres said Palestinians were facing frequent attacks by Israeli settlers, which he described as part of an effort to force residents from their homes and communities. He also expressed concern over attacks targeting journalists and diplomats in the occupied territories.
Turning to Gaza, the UN chief said humanitarian aid remained severely restricted as winter approached, worsening the difficulties faced by civilians and undermining efforts to implement the Security Council-backed plan to resolve the conflict.
Guterres highlighted the urgent need for $450 million in funding for the World Food Program to provide food assistance to vulnerable populations in Gaza and the West Bank over the next six months. He noted that the amount was equivalent to roughly 90 minutes of worldwide military spending.
He urged international donors to increase their financial support to address the growing humanitarian crisis. Guterres also called for an end to the occupation, emphasizing that a lasting resolution must include a viable two-state solution.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE