UN chief Antonio Guterres has said that “hearts are breaking for Palestinians in Gaza” and the conflict is a “wound” that could affect the whole region, Al Jazeera reports.

Speaking at a summit of the League of Arab States, he said, “In its speed and scale, it is the deadliest conflict in my time as secretary-general — for civilians, aid workers, journalists, and our own UN colleagues.”

“I reiterate my call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people,” he emphasised.

“Yet the toll on civilians continues to escalate. Entire families wiped out. Children traumatised and injured for life. People denied access to the very basics for human survival. A looming famine.”

“Any assault on Rafah is unacceptable. It would inflict another surge of pain and misery when we need a surge in life-saving aid.”