UN Chief Warns Against Fear of Israel's West Bank Annexation Amid Gaza Conflict

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the international community not to be intimidated by Israel's ongoing military offensive in Gaza and its gradual annexation efforts in the occupied West Bank. Speaking ahead of the upcoming UN General Assembly session, Guterres emphasized the need for global pressure to prevent Israel's annexation plans and highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands have been displaced amid the conflict. He noted that despite Israel's threats of retaliation, the international community should mobilize to counteract these actions, which include destruction in Gaza and the occupation of Palestinian land. Several countries, including Portugal, are preparing to officially recognize Palestine as an independent state during the UN session, signaling growing support amid the conflict. While Guterres refrained from labeling Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide, he underscored the severe suffering and destruction faced by Palestinians. Additionally, he warned that climate action worldwide is weakening, with the goal of limiting global warming nearing collapse, reflecting broader global concerns beyond the Middle East conflict.