UN chief rejects Israel's aid distribution plan for Gaza
- Israel closed entry points into Gaza on March 2, 2025, after Hamas rejected a ceasefire plan.
- Antonio Guterres criticized Israel's proposal for controlling aid distribution as counterproductive and a violation of humanitarian principles.
- The UN plans to refuse cooperation unless humanitarian principles are fully respected.
On March 2, 2025, the Israeli authorities closed the entry points into Gaza following Hamas's rejection of an American ceasefire extension plan. The intention was to exert pressure on Hamas to release hostages by restricting aid and cutting off electricity. In response, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres firmly rejected Israel's new proposal to oversee aid distribution in Gaza, arguing that it risks further control over humanitarian efforts and violates humanitarian principles. Guterres emphasized that the UN would not cooperate with any arrangement that undermines humanity, impartiality, and independence in delivering aid. He condemned Israel for not allowing sufficient aid into Gaza and stated that the situation for Gazans is becoming increasingly desperate. The UN has disputed claims from Israel that there is adequate food supply in Gaza, with reports from UN agencies indicating a critical situation. Guterres holds Israel responsible for ensuring the basic health of the Gazan population, fulfilling its obligations as an occupying power. Despite Israel's assertions, Guterres criticized the allegations of Hamas stealing aid as unfounded, blaming Israel for worsening conditions while calling for the unconditional release of hostages.