The UN Secretary-General condemned the intensification of Israel’s attacks toward southern Lebanon and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.

António Guterres said he is “deeply concerned” about the increase in civilian casualties and the displacement resulting from evacuation orders “deep.”

He added that reports of Israeli attacks on hospitals, medical personnel, and public institutions, as well as restrictions on humanitarian access, have “terrified” him.

He called on all sides to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and their obligations under UN Security Council Resolution 1701.