Israel’s representative to UN asks for Secretary-General’s resignation following his comment on Israel-Hamas war

Israel’s representative to the U.N. called for the resignation of the organisation’s Secretary-General Antonio Guterres following his remarks on the ongoing Israel – Hamas war in Gaza.

Speaking on Tuesday, addressing the UN council, Guterres reiterated his call for humanitarian pause of Israel’s offensive in the Gaza Strip, which has been sealed off from its supplies of food, water, fuel, and other necessities. He pressed that the country was “clearly violating international laws” as it has launched a multi-pronged attack against Hamas, in retaliation to its attack on October 7.

While stating that he condemns the assault launched by Hamas, Guterres noted that “the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum” as they have been subjected to “suffocating occupation” for 56 years. He added that the grievances of the Palestinians cannot justify the attacks.

This statement did not sit right with some diplomats of Israel including its Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, as he stated, “Mr. Secretary General, in what world do you live? Definitely, this is not our world.” The minister also shared the list of children killed by Hamas militants.

In a press briefing following the U.N. Security Council meeting, Gilad Erdan, Israeli representative to the UN demanded resignation from Guterres for his comments.

“Because when you say those terrible words that these heinous attacks did not happen in a vacuum, you are tolerating terrorism, and I think that the Secretary-General must resign.”