UN Chief Urges Immediate Humanitarian Ceasefire Amid Escalation in Israel's Bombardment

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed surprise at Israel's escalation of bombardments in Gaza and called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to allow aid delivery. Guterres had hoped for a consensus on the need for a pause in the fighting, but instead witnessed an unprecedented escalation that undermined humanitarian objectives. The weeks-long reprisal by Israel follows an attack by Hamas, resulting in a growing humanitarian catastrophe for Gaza's 2.3 million people. The communication blackout in Gaza is hindering aid efforts, including ambulances and evacuations. Calls for a ceasefire have been increasing globally, with widespread protests in support of Palestine.