OIC condemns ‘Israel’s intimidation’ of UN chief

– ANKARA (AA) – The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in New York has condemned Israel’s recent criticism of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Israeli top officials criticized recent remarks of Guterres on the recent escalations in Gaza, including Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan, who demanded that Guterres resign “immediately,” and said he is “not fit to lead the UN.”

In a joint statement initiated by Pakistan, the OIC “expressed its strong condemnation of the disrespectful and intimidating remarks by Israel” and characterized the remarks as “an act of political coercion against the UN and its Secretary-General.”

The group lauded the UN for its role in facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to the besieged residents of Gaza.

It appreciated the secretary-general’s role “in drawing the attention of the international community towards the criminal Israeli attacks on civilians perpetrated by the Israeli occupation forces, and for facilitating the provision of humanitarian supplies to the besieged people of Gaza.”

According to the joint statement, the OIC firmly believes that the secretary-general’s comments align with his responsibilities and obligations under international law, international humanitarian law, as well as the charter and resolutions of the United Nations.

The OIC group expressed its “full confidence” in Secretary-General Guterres and reiterated support for his endeavors in promoting peace and security.

Since October 7, the Israeli military has launched a relentless bombardment of Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Over 7,028 Palestinians have been killed, most of them children, minors and women.