UN chief 'appalled' by Israeli airstrikes on Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is "appalled" by Israeli airstrikes on the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza and condemned the killings of any civilian, his spokesman said Wednesday.

Guterres "is appalled over the escalating violence in Gaza, including the killing of Palestinians, including women, children and Israeli airstrikes in residential areas of the densely populated Jabalia refugee camp," Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

The attacks Tuesday led to hundreds of casualties, according to the Interior Ministry in the besieged enclave.

Dujarric said Guterres reiterates that all parties must abide by international law "and international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution."

"He condemns in the strongest terms, any killings of civilians," said the spokesman, adding the UN chief demands an end to the violence in Gaza.

Guterres also urged "the immediate and unconditional release of all the hostages currently being held in Gaza and also for the entry of vital humanitarian assistance at a scale needed to meet the mounting needs of the Palestinian population," said Dujarric.

The Israeli army has expanded its air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip, which has been under relentless airstrikes since the Palestinian group Hamas launched a surprise cross-border offensive on Oct. 7.

More than 10,300 people have since been killed in the conflict, including at least 8,796 Palestinians and more than 1,538 Israelis.