In his statement, Borrell addressed the allegations of distortion, emphasizing that Guterres' words had been mischaracterized.

Borrell emphasized that Guterres had been unambiguous in asserting that all civilian lives hold equal value and that international humanitarian law (IHL) applies universally, both before and after the events of October 7.

Borrell further underlined the European Union's full support for the work of Secretary-General Guterres and the United Nations staff, particularly their efforts to promote peace and provide humanitarian assistance in the Middle East and globally.

Antonio Guterres had called for a ceasefire in the israel-Palestine conflict on Wednesday, acknowledging that the context for Hamas' October 7 attack on israel should be considered.

Guterres also highlighted the long-standing Palestinian experience of "56 years of suffocating occupation". (ILKHA)