Jerusalem, Israel – In a surprising move, Israel’s Foreign Minister declared UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres persona non grata in Israel on Wednesday, barring him from entering the country. The decision was announced by Israel Katz, who cited Guterres’ failure to condemn Iran’s recent aerial bombardment of Israel and his alleged silence on the crimes committed by Hamas on October 7 as reasons for the ban.
However, sources within Israeli authorities quickly disputed Katz’s claim, stating that Guterres could still enter Israel using his non-diplomatic passport, rendering the announcement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs meaningless. This incident comes amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Israel conducting a ground incursion into Southern Lebanon in response to Iran’s missile attack on Israeli targets.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed that American destroyers in the Mediterranean had assisted Israel’s Iron Dome defense system in repelling the Iranian barrage. The extent of damage from the attack remains uncertain, with conflicting reports from Iran and Israel regarding the success rate of the missile interceptions.
The Biden administration has expressed support for Israel’s military actions, which have led to further displacement in Lebanon. Following airstrikes that targeted Hezbollah leadership, Israel has vowed retaliation against Iran for the recent attack. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Iran’s actions, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian defended the missile launch as a response to perceived threats from Israel.
The escalating rhetoric between the two countries has raised concerns about the potential for a deeper crisis in the region. There are fears that diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire, initiated by the U.S. and France, may be derailed by the recent hostilities between Iran and Israel. The situation remains volatile, with the possibility of further escalation looming over the Middle East.