Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Israel Gaza War
UN Secretary General António Guterres Banned from Israel Over Response to Iran’s Missile Strikes
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has been barred from entering Israel following his response to Iran’s recent ballistic missile attacks. Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, labeled Guterres as an "anti Israel secretary general who lends support to terrorists."
After Iran launched approximately 180 missiles into Israel, Guterres took to the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), condemning the escalating Middle East conflict and calling for an immediate ceasefire. However, his statement did not directly address Iran’s missile strike on Israel, prompting backlash from Israeli officials.
In a statement, Foreign Minister Katz declared Guterres persona non grata, stating that anyone who fails to "unequivocally condemn Iran's heinous attack on Israel" should not be allowed to enter the country. He further criticized the UN chief for what he described as an anti-Israel stance since the conflict began.
Tuesday’s missile attack by Iran is part of a broader escalation that started nearly a year ago with Hamas attacks on Israel. The conflict has recently intensified, involving increased clashes between Hezbollah, backed by Iran, and Israeli forces. Israel launched its military campaign in Gaza in response to the Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the taking of 251 hostages.
The ongoing war has caused tensions between Israel and the United Nations, particularly regarding the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. The UN’s role, particularly through its agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), has been another source of friction. Earlier this year, Israel accused several UNRWA staff members of involvement in the October 7 attacks, leading to investigations and the dismissal of nine staff members in August.
Throughout the conflict, UNRWA has also criticized Israel for airstrikes in Gaza that have resulted in the deaths of its staff.
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