Baghdad, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for the immediate reopening of the Rafah crossing, following its closure a few days ago by Israeli forces. Guterres' Spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, said in a press statement today, Tuesday, on the United Nations website: "The Secretary-General is horrified by the escalation of military activity in and around Rafah by Israeli forces." He explained that these developments in Rafah "impede the arrival of humanitarian aid and exacerbate the already deteriorating situation." Dujarric stressed that "civilians must be respected and protected at all times, in Rafah and anywhere else in Gaza, as there is currently no safe place for the residents of Gaza." Dujarric said that Guterres calls for "the immediate reopening of the Rafah crossing," stressing that there must be "unimpeded humanitarian access to all parts of Gaza." The Secretary-General of the United Nations also renewed his 'urgent' appeal for 'an immediate ceasefire on humanitarian grounds and the release of all hostages.' Source: National Iraqi News Agency