Tehran: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has repeated his call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as the Israeli regime launches a new large-scale offensive to occupy Gaza City and forcibly displace its residents.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Guterres emphasized the urgency of reaching a ceasefire and the unconditional release of all captives to prevent the massive death and destruction that a military operation against Gaza would inevitably cause. He conveyed this message in a post on X, stressing the importance of halting violence in the region.

Guterres also called for a reversal of Israel’s plan to expand illegal settlement construction, which he noted would divide the West Bank. He reiterated that all settlement construction is a violation of international law, underscoring the need for adherence to international legal standards.

The situation in Gaza has intensified as Israel escalates its assaults on the city. As part of its plan to capture the area, nearly one million residents have been forcibly displaced, and there are reports of systematic demolitions of Palestinian houses.

Hamas has criticized Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu for allegedly ignoring international mediation efforts for a ceasefire and continuing with the military takeover of Gaza City.