Israel declares UN Secretary-General Guterres 'persona non grata'

The move comes in response to what Katz claims is Guterres' failure to "categorically condemn" Iran’s missile strike on Israeli targets.

In a statement released by Israel’s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday, Katz criticized Guterres for his perceived bias, accusing the UN chief of harboring anti-Israel sentiments and supporting terrorists. "Anyone who is unable to categorically condemn Iran's attack on Israel is not worthy of stepping on Israeli soil," Katz declared. "This is a Secretary-General who hates Israel and has given support to terrorists. Guterres will be remembered as an eternal stain on the history of the United Nations."

The Israeli government stated that it will continue to defend its citizens and maintain its international standing "with or without António Guterres," signaling a strong rebuke of the UN leader’s stance on the ongoing conflict. The ban underscores escalating tensions between Israel and the UN amid increased hostilities in the region. (ILKHA)