UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres answered questions from an AA correspondent at a press conference held at the UN building. Guterres responded to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s statements regarding Gaza.
Response to Netanyahu’s Claims
While evaluating Netanyahu’s claims about civilian deaths in Gaza, Guterres said, “People know who to believe on this issue. I am comfortable,” and emphasized that the UN stands behind its statements.
Emphasis on Two-State Solution
Regarding Netanyahu’s “day after” scenario regarding Gaza, Guterres responded by saying, “There was nothing new in what was said yesterday, so there is no need for me to comment.” Guterres said, “Regardless of what anyone says where, we have to preserve the two-state solution in order to build peace in the region.”
Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
Guterres described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as a “complete disaster” and said that Israel’s military campaign was causing civilian deaths and destruction. Noting that civilians were constantly being displaced, Guterres said, “People are forced to seek safety where nowhere is safe.” He was also stressed that humanitarian aid was inadequate and the situation was dramatic.
Attacks on UN Convoys
Guterres stated that he had not met with Netanyahu regarding the attacks on UN convoys, but that his team was in contact with Israeli and other country officials. He said that the contacts were continuing to prevent the incidents from happening again.
