Israel bans UN secretary-general from entering country for failing to condemn Iran’s attack

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has announced a ban on UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, declaring him an "undesirable" figure and prohibiting his entry into Israel. This move highlights the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, stemming from the Israeli government's dissatisfaction with the UN's response to Iran's recent missile attacks on Israel.

In a post on X, Katz criticized Guterres for failing to "unequivocally condemn" Iran's actions, stating, “I decided today to declare U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres an undesirable personality in Israel and to ban his entry into Israel.” He added that Guterres does not merit the right to visit the country due to his perceived support for terrorism.

The backdrop to this decision involves Iran's missile strikes on Israel, which Tehran claims are retaliatory actions following the deaths of key figures linked to groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, killed by Israeli airstrikes. Following the missile attacks, Guterres expressed concern over the escalating conflict in the region, calling for a ceasefire.

Katz accused Guterres of siding with “terrorists, rapists, and murderers,” emphasizing Israel's commitment to protecting its citizens and maintaining its national integrity. The ban on Guterres represents a significant deterioration in relations between Israel and the UN, following previous bans on other UN officials, including Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur for Palestinians.

It remains uncertain whether Katz possesses the authority to enforce such a ban, as typically, the power to restrict entry lies with the interior minister in many countries.