United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said, “Palestinians in Gaza are enduring what may be the cruellest phase of this cruel conflict” as Israel ramps up its military offensive, AFP reports.

“For nearly 80 days, Israel blocked the entry of life-saving international aid,” he said in a statement. “The entire population of Gaza is facing the risk of famine.

“The Israeli military offensive is intensifying with atrocious levels of death and destruction. “