UN and Global Support for Guterres Amid Israeli Controversy
In a significant show of solidarity, 104 member states of the United Nations and the African Union have rallied behind Secretary-General Antonio Guterres following Israel's declaration of him as 'persona non grata.' This move by Israel has raised alarms among the international community, highlighting concerns over actions that could hinder the UN's ability to fulfill its mandate.
The letter from these nations emphasizes the crucial role Guterres plays in promoting peace, security, and humanitarian efforts globally. It condemns Israeli actions that threaten the establishment of a viable path towards a two-State solution, which is essential for lasting peace in the Middle East.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz's decision to bar Guterres from entering Israel stems from the Secretary-General's perceived lack of condemnation regarding recent Iranian missile attacks on Tel Aviv. This has sparked a broader debate about the relationship between the UN and its member states, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions in the region.
The 15 members of the UN Security Council, including the five permanent members—United States, China, Russia, Britain, and France—have also expressed their concerns. They stressed the importance of maintaining a cooperative relationship with the Secretary-General and warned that any actions undermining his authority could be counterproductive, especially given the escalating situation in the Middle East.
