Doha: The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is "deeply alarmed" at Sunday's strike by Israeli occupation forces on the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. "Under international humanitarian law, wounded and sick, medical personnel and medical facilities, including hospitals, must be respected and protected," the UN chief said in a statement.

According to Qatar News Agency, Guterres emphasized that the attack has inflicted significant damage on an already struggling healthcare system in Gaza. He highlighted the dire situation, noting that medical supplies are running low while hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties.

Guterres pointed out that nearly 70% of Gaza is now under Israeli-issued displacement orders or classified as a "no-go" zone, leaving the Palestinian population with limited options for safety and survival.

The Secretary-General reiterated his concern over the ongoing blockade of aid, stressing that Israel has not permitted any humanitarian assistance or essential supplies into Gaza for more than seven weeks. The humanitarian impact is severe, with dwindling food stocks, reduced water production, and a lack of shelter materials.

The UN chief reaffirmed that the United Nations will not engage in any aid delivery operations that fail to uphold the principles of humanity, impartiality, independence, and neutrality. He called for the protection and respect of civilians at all times and insisted on the restoration and renewal of a ceasefire without delay.