NEW YORK, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) – The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
In a report on Friday, Guterres said 2025 witnessed the largest growth in settlement plans since UN monitoring began.
He also condemned settler violence, which he said is increasing at a dangerous rate and becoming more severe during the olive harvest season, as reported by the Middle East Monitor.
“All settlements are illegal and invalid, representing a clear violation of international law,” he affirmed.
Guterres expressed deep concern about the fragile security situation in Gaza and the ongoing violence that threatens the ceasefire.
He noted that Israel’s regular airstrikes in Gaza continue to cause significant civilian casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure.
The Secretary-General also highlighted that key sources of protein remain out of reach for most people, despite some improvement in food supplies to Gaza.
He stressed that full accountability must be ensured for any grave crimes or violations of international law.
Guterres warned that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic, with over 80 per cent of residential and public buildings destroyed or severely damaged.
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