United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern on Friday regarding the dire situation faced by Palestinians in Gaza, describing it they are “enduring what may be the cruelest phase of this cruel conflict” as Israel increases its military operations. 

He emphasized that for nearly 80 days, Israel has restricted the entry of essential international aid, resulting in a severe risk of famine for the entire Gazan population. Guterres remarked, “The Israeli military offensive is intensifying with atrocious levels of death and destruction.”

Following a two-month ceasefire, Israel resumed significant military activities in Gaza on March 18. This week, aid began to enter the Gaza Strip for the first time in over two months, drawing attention to the repercussions of the Israeli blockade, which has led to critical shortages of food and medical supplies.