New York, 9 October 2023 (dpa/MIA) - United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on Israel to conduct military operations in Gaza in accordance with international law.

The UN leader also said he is "deeply distressed" by Israel's announcement of a "complete siege" of Gaza, with vows to cut off food, water and electricity to the 2 million residents.

"While I recognize Israel's legitimate security concerns, I also remind Israel that military operations must be conducted in strict accordance with international humanitarian law," Guterres said.

He said the UN has already received reports of Israeli strikes on medical facilities in Gaza, and he called on all sides "to allow United Nations access to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians trapped and helpless in the Gaza Strip."

"The humanitarian situation in Gaza was extremely dire before these hostilities; now it will only deteriorate exponentially," he said.

Guterres also repeated his "utter condemnation" of the "abhorrent attacks" launched by the Islamist militant group Hamas on Saturday, and demanded that Hamas end rocket attacks on Israel and release hostages held in Gaza.

"I recognize the legitimate grievances of the Palestinian people. But nothing can justify these acts of terror and the killing, maiming and abduction of civilians," Guterres said.

Photo: EPA