UN chief denounces “cruelest phase” of war on Gaza

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Friday said Palestinians in Gaza are "enduring what may be the cruelest phase of this cruel conflict" as “Israel” ramps up its aggression.

"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."

Aid began trickling into the Gaza Strip this week for the first time in more than two months, amid condemnation of the “Israeli” blockade that sparked severe shortages of food and medicine.

But Guterres warned that of almost 400 trucks cleared for entry into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing, supplies from only 115 have been able to be collected.

"The needs are massive -- and the obstacles are staggering," he said. "Strict quotas are being imposed on the goods we distribute -- along with unnecessary delay procedures."

"Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law," Guterres added. "As the occupying power, it must agree to allow and facilitate the aid that is needed."