UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for “an immediate cessation” of Israel’s attacks on the occupied West Bank, including its assault on Jenin, Tulkarem and Tubas governorates, according to a statement.

According to Al Jazeera, the UN chief strongly condemned the loss of lives, including children, and urged Israel to protect civilians and ensure their safety.

“All those injured must have access to medical care, and humanitarian workers must be able to reach everyone in need,” he said.

“These dangerous developments are fuelling an already explosive situation in the occupied West Bank and further undermining the Palestinian Authority,” he added.

Guterres also expressed concern over “dangerous and provocative acts and statements” by Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has led Israelis in the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound several times since the bombardment in Gaza began and called for a synagogue to be built there.