UN chief expresses shock over Israel air strikes on Gaza

Palestinians are among the rubbles of their houses in Khan Yunis, Gaza, where Israeli army violated the ceasefire and continued its attacks, resulting in the death of at least 322 people, on March 18, 2025 [Abed Rahim Khatib/Anadolu Agency]

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres today expressed shock over the recent Israeli air strikes on Gaza that killed hundreds of Palestinians, including children and women.

In a statement, deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq said the UN chief strongly appealed for an immediate ceasefire, the restoration of unimpeded humanitarian assistance, and the release of the remaining captives.

Local authorities in Gaza said today that over 322 Palestinians were killed and missing in a matter of five hours across the Gaza Strip as Israel resumed its genocidal war.

Israel had agreed on a ceasefire with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas since 19 January, and the two sides were due to begin talks on the second phase of the truce before Tel Aviv suddenly launched a massive assault amid the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Israeli attacks have killed more than 48,500 Palestinians since October 2023, most of them women and children, and left Gaza in ruins.

READ: Over 200 Palestinians killed as Israel returns to intensified bombing of Gaza

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