UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a plea to Israel, urging the immediate reopening of the Rafah and Kerem Abu Salem crossings to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

Guterres expressed grave concern over the closure of these crossings, warning that it worsens an already dire humanitarian situation in the region.

In his statement, Guterres emphasized the urgent need to halt the escalation of tensions, calling on Israel to refrain from further actions that could exacerbate the crisis. He highlighted the potential consequences of a "massive attack" on Rafah, a densely populated area, stressing that such an event could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe affecting innocent civilians.

Earlier today, Israeli occupation forces seized control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing, halting the flow of aid to Gaza. The move has sparked international concern and condemnation, with calls for immediate action to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. (ILKHA)