Israel has officially prohibited United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres from entering the country, accusing him of supporting terrorism due to his perceived failure to denounce recent Iranian missile strikes on Israel.
In a strong statement, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz explained the ban, criticizing Guterres for not directly condemning Iran’s actions. Katz stated, “Anyone who cannot denounce Iran’s attack is unfit to enter Israel,” labeling the UN leader as “anti-Israel” and alleging that he supports terrorists, rapists, and murderers.
Read more: Ushna Shah Urges Pakistan Army to Act After Iran’s Missile Strikes on Israel
This controversy arose after Guterres expressed concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East in a recent social media post. He wrote, “I strongly condemn the rising conflict in the region. This must end immediately. A ceasefire is urgently needed.” However, his failure to specifically address Iran’s missile attack on Israel seemingly prompted the Israeli government’s decision, heightening diplomatic tensions between Israel and the UN.
This move represents a rare diplomatic escalation, reflecting Israel’s growing frustration with the UN’s handling of regional conflicts, especially those involving Iran. It remains unclear how the UN will respond to this unprecedented ban on its Secretary-General.
