Israel Declares UN Chief Guterres Persona Non Grata Amid Rising Tensions, UN Reacts

United Nations, Oct 4 (Alliance News): Israel’s unprecedented decision to declare UN Secretary-General António Guterres persona non grata has drawn sharp reactions from UN officials and diplomats. The move follows Guterres’ call for a ceasefire in the Middle East amid escalating tensions.

The United Nations has condemned Israel’s declaration of Secretary-General António Guterres as persona non grata, calling it a political statement and “one more attack” on UN staff by Tel Aviv.

This follows remarks made by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, who labeled Guterres as “anti-Israel” for allegedly not condemning Iran’s missile attacks on Israel.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, speaking at the UN Headquarters in New York, stressed that the UN does not recognize the concept of persona non grata applying to its staff. He described Israel’s action as unprecedented in his 24-year career.

“This is more of a political statement than a legal one,” Dujarric emphasized, adding that Guterres only travels to countries upon invitation.

Diplomats and Security Council members reacted strongly to the Israeli decision, expressing their support for Guterres.

Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia described the move as a “slap” to the entire UN, while China’s envoy expressed “resolute support” for the secretary-general. Malta, France, South Korea, and Algeria also voiced unwavering support for Guterres and called on Israel to reconsider its position.

However, the United States avoided commenting on Guterres, with Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield reiterating America’s “full support” for Israel.

The diplomatic spat comes amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with Guterres urging for an immediate ceasefire and condemning escalating violence in the region.