Over 100 UN states condemn Israel’s ‘persona non grata’ decision on Guterres

A coalition of 104 U.N. member states, along with the African Union, condemned on Friday Israel’s decision to declare Secretary-General Antonio Guterres “persona non grata.”

The group voiced strong support for Guterres in a statement.

The statement, signed by the countries, including Türkiye, criticized Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz’s decision and argued that giving Guterres the “unwelcome” label undermines the U.N.’s mandate.

“In the Middle East, this could further delay an end to all hostilities and the establishment of a credible path toward the two-state solution, with the state of Palestine and Israel living side by side in peace and security, in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions,” it said.

The statement said the 104 nations reaffirmed full support and confidence in the U.N. chief and his work.

“We are confident of his commitment to peace and security, and alignment with International Law including in promoting respect for international humanitarian law, and the relevant United Nations resolutions regarding the situation in the Middle East,” it noted.

The statement also urged respect for the U.N.’s leadership and mission.

“We call upon all parties to avoid actions that could undermine the critical role of the United Nations in conflict resolution and instead support initiatives that contribute to a peaceful and lasting solution to the crisis in the Middle East,” it added.

Israel recently declared Guterres “persona non grata,” barring him from entering the country. This decision followed Guterres’ demand for an immediate de-escalation of tensions in the region.

Israel accused Guterres of failing to mention Iran by name or explicitly condemn Tehran for its alleged involvement in recent rocket attacks.

While Guterres condemned the escalation of violence in the Middle East and urged an immediate cease-fire, he did not directly address Iran’s role.