NEW YORK /PNN /
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said he was deeply disturbed by the news from Jenin in the occupied West Bank. "Israel’s airstrikes and ground operations in a crowded refugee camp were the worst violence in the West Bank in many years, with a significant impact on civilians, including more than one hundred injured and thousands forced to flee.,” he said during a press briefing.
He reiterated his call on Israel to abide by its obligations under international law, including the duty to exercise restraint and use only proportional force, and the duty to minimize damage and injury and respect and preserve human life.
He described the use of airstrikes as inconsistent with the conduct of law enforcement operations.
The Secretary-General noted that schools and hospitals were damaged, water and electricity networks were disrupted, and people in need were prevented from accessing essential care and relief.
“All those injured must have access to medical care, and humanitarian workers must be able to reach everyone in need,” he said.
He reminded Israel that as the occupying power, it is responsible for ensuring that the civilian population is protected against all acts of violence.
“Restoring the hope of the Palestinian people in a meaningful political process, leading to a two-State solution and the end of the occupation, is an essential contribution by Israel to its own security,” the Secretary-General concluded
