Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen expressed his discontent with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for his criticism of Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza. During a session of the Security Council in New York, Cohen raised a sign showing images of Hamas captives and asked, "Mr. Secretary-General, in what world do you live?"
According to Hebrew media, Cohen canceled a meeting scheduled with Guterres in New York in protest over Guterres's statement that "the Hamas attack did not happen out of nowhere." Cohen called for the "unconditional release of all hostages in Gaza" and emphasized that "the world must unite with Israel to eliminate Hamas." He also addressed Guterres directly, saying, "You should resign."
Guterres had called for the protection of civilians in the war between Israel and Hamas, expressing concern over "clear violations of international humanitarian law" in Gaza. He told the 15-member Security Council that during such a "critical moment," it is important to clarify that wars have rules, based on the fundamental principle of respecting and protecting civilians.
Guterres stated, "It is also important to recognize that the attacks by Hamas did not occur in a vacuum. The Palestinian people have suffered under a stifling occupation for 56 years." He added, "However, the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the horrific attacks carried out by Hamas. These dreadful attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people."
Israel's ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, described Guterres's remarks as "shocking." Erdan posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating, "His assertion that Hamas's attacks did not happen in a vacuum reflects an understanding of terrorism and murder. It is truly sad that the head of an organization that arose after the Holocaust holds such horrific views."
