A joint letter condemning Israel’s labeling of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as an “undesirable person” was released by 104 UN member states, including Turkey, and the African Union.

The statement by Israel naming UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as an “undesirable person” received backlash from UN member states. Among them, 104 UN member countries, including Turkey, and the African Union published a letter in support of Guterres.

The letter of protest against Israel stated, “We express deep concern over the recent statement by Israeli Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz declaring UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres an undesirable person and condemn this statement.” The letter emphasized that such actions weaken UN’s ability to fulfill its duties including mediation in conflicts and providing humanitarian support, warning that “The situation in the Middle East may further delay the establishment of a credible path towards a two-state solution where Palestine and Israel will coexist peacefully and securely in accordance with relevant UN resolutions.” “REAFFIRMING OUR FULL SUPPORT”

Acknowledging the importance of promoting dialogue and understanding among conflicting parties during times of escalated tensions, the letter underlined the “significant” role of the UN Secretary-General. The letter contained the statement, “The Secretary-General plays a vital role in achieving the purposes stated in the UN Charter including the preservation of international peace and security and the development of friendly relations among nations.”

Highlighting the critical importance of the Secretary-General’s work in facilitating dialogue, facilitating humanitarian aid efforts, and promoting peace and stability worldwide, the letter reiterated its “full support and confidence in the Secretary-General and his work.” “CALLING FOR RESPECT FOR THE MISSION OF THE UN”

The letter indicated that the efforts of the UN Secretary-General reflect a shared desire for achieving lasting peace in the Middle East, ending violence, and establishing meaningful dialogue. It called on all parties to constructively engage with the United Nations in the pursuit of a sustainable and equitable solution through diplomacy, stating, “As member states, we call for respect for the leadership and mission of the UN.” SUPPORT FOR PEACEFUL RESOLUTION

Emphasizing the vital importance of maintaining a constructive relationship with the UN to overcome challenges and achieve a peaceful future, the letter urged all parties to refrain from actions that would undermine the critical role of the UN in resolving conflicts in the Middle East and to support efforts contributing to the peaceful and permanent resolution of the crisis in the region.