Did Israel Accuse UN Chief of 'Blatant Lies' While Defending IDF's Actions?
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Synopsis
In a strong response to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Israel's Foreign Ministry has denied accusations regarding civilian targeting and criticized the UN's role in Gaza's humanitarian crisis. The escalating tensions highlight the complexity of the conflict and the urgent need for humanitarian considerations amidst ongoing violence.
Key Takeaways
- Israel denies targeting civilians amid accusations from the UN.
- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is described as severe.
- The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has provided millions of meals.
- Israel claims the UN is enabling Hamas's actions.
- Leadership stresses the IDF's commitment to civilian safety.
Tel Aviv, June 28 (NationPress) The Foreign Ministry of Israel has criticized the comments made by United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres regarding humanitarian aid to Gaza, accusing Israel of the UN's "failures" and of Hamas's actions. The ministry asserted that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) never targets civilians.
This statement follows Guterres's call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing that the humanitarian situation has escalated to "horrific levels" and stating, "People are being killed merely for attempting to feed themselves and their families. The pursuit of food should never equate to a death sentence."
In reference to the alleged assaults on the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), Guterres remarked, "We don’t require a report of that kind to recognize that there have been severe breaches of international law. When international law is violated, accountability is essential."
Responding via X, the ministry stated, "In reaction to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s remarks: Holding Israel accountable for the UN's shortcomings and for Hamas's actions is a calculated strategy. The GHF has successfully delivered over 46 million meals directly to Palestinian civilians, not to Hamas. Yet the UN is actively working against this initiative."
Israel further asserted that by doing so, the UN is aligning itself with Hamas, which the Foreign Ministry claims is also attempting to "undermine the GHF's humanitarian efforts."
"The IDF never targets civilians, and any assertions to the contrary are blatant lies. It is Hamas that is intentionally targeting and killing GHF aid workers — a crime that the UN has yet to denounce — and is also assaulting civilians who are attempting to receive aid from the GHF," it added.
"The UN must now make a decision: Does it wish to maintain its monopoly and a system that benefits Hamas — thus prolonging the conflict — or is it genuinely interested in providing humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza?" questioned the ministry.
Moreover, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a joint statement on Friday, reiterating that the IDF has been given explicit orders to protect innocents.
"The State of Israel utterly rejects the despicable blood libels published in the Ha'aretz newspaper, which claim that 'IDF Soldiers Were Ordered to Shoot Deliberately at Unarmed Gazans Waiting for Humanitarian Aid,'" the statement concluded.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize the complexity of the situation in Gaza. The accusations and counter-accusations highlight the deep divisions and the urgent need for dialogue. While Israel asserts its commitment to protecting civilians, the role of international organizations in mediating and delivering aid cannot be overlooked. Our focus should remain on humanitarian needs, while ensuring accountability on all sides.
NationPress
28/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Guterres's remarks about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza?
Guterres emphasized that the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached 'horrific proportions,' stating that people are dying while trying to secure food for their families.
How did Israel respond to Guterres's accusations?
Israel's Foreign Ministry condemned Guterres's statements, claiming that the IDF never targets civilians and accusing the UN of siding with Hamas.
What is the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation?
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) is an organization that has provided over 46 million meals to Palestinian civilians, separate from Hamas.
What actions does Israel claim Hamas is taking?
Israel accuses Hamas of deliberately targeting aid workers and civilians attempting to access humanitarian assistance.
What is the current stance of Israeli leadership regarding civilian safety?
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz have stated that the IDF is instructed to avoid harming innocent civilians.
