Doha: The UN rejects any Israeli attempt to make demographic or territorial changes in the Gaza Strip, spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Thursday. Addressing a presser in New York, Dujarric stated, “The Secretary-General also reminds that Security Council resolution 2735 (2024) rejects any attempt at demographic or territorial change in the Gaza Strip, including any actions that reduce the territory of Gaza.”

According to Qatar News Agency, Dujarric expressed concerns over Israeli statements and inflammatory rhetoric calling for Israel to “capture extensive territory that will be added to the State of Israel’s security areas.” He emphasized that Israeli bombardment and large-scale ground operations have led to widespread destruction and the displacement of more than 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah in the past two days alone.

Dujarric highlighted the need to protect medical, humanitarian, and emergency personnel at all times, and to respect and protect civilians, in accordance with international humanitarian law. He noted in this context the recent killing of 15 medical and humanitarian workers in Gaza.