UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed shock on Tuesday following Israel’s deadly airstrikes in Gaza, marking the most intense attacks since the ceasefire began in January.
The airstrikes, which have left at least 413 people dead, have reignited fears of further violence in the region.
A UN spokesperson stated that Guterres strongly condemned the strikes and appealed for the immediate restoration of the ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian aid, and the unconditional release of remaining hostages.
Israel, however, has vowed to continue its military operations until all hostages are returned.
Hamas, which controls Gaza, accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of escalating the conflict after stalled truce talks.
The group warned that this could signal a “death sentence” for hostages still held in Gaza.
Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN refugee agency, called the resumption of fighting “hell on Earth.”
He emphasized that a return to the ceasefire is crucial to prevent further civilian casualties, including children.
UN rights chief Volker Turk also condemned the airstrikes, stating they would only bring more suffering to an already devastated population.
The fragile ceasefire, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S., has struggled to hold since March, after the initial truce phase ended.
The continuing conflict, which began with Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, has led to catastrophic conditions for Palestinians, leaving many calling for an urgent political resolution.
The UN remains adamant that the path to peace lies in a political settlement in line with international law.
