UNITED NATIONS, United States, May 23, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - United Nations 
chief Antonio Guterres on Friday said Palestinians in Gaza are "enduring what 
may be the cruelest phase of this cruel conflict" as Israel ramps up its 
military offensive.

"For nearly 80 days, Israel blocked the entry of life-saving international 
aid," he said in a statement. "The entire population of Gaza is facing the 
risk of famine.

"The Israeli military offensive is intensifying with atrocious levels of 
death and destruction."

Israel resumed major operations in Gaza on March 18, ending a two-month 
ceasefire.

Aid began trickling into the Gaza Strip this week for the first time in more 
than two months, amid condemnation of the Israeli blockade that sparked 
severe shortages of food and medicine.

But Guterres warned that of almost 400 trucks cleared for entry into Gaza 
through the Kerem Shalom crossing, supplies from only 115 have been able to 
be collected.

"The needs are massive -- and the obstacles are staggering," he said. "Strict 
quotas are being imposed on the goods we distribute -- along with unnecessary 
delay procedures."

"Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law," Guterres 
added. "As the occupying power, it must agree to allow and facilitate the aid 
that is needed."