Israel-Iran War: In a bold move, Israels Foreign Minister announced on Wednesday (October 2, 2024) that U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is now barred from entering the country. The decision came after Guterres failed to unequivocally condemn Irans missile attack on Israel, which escalated tensions in the Middle East.Irans missile barrage on IsraelOn Tuesday (October 1, 2024), Iran fired more than 180 ballistic missiles at Israel, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Irans proxy in Lebanon. While many missiles were intercepted mid-air, some managed to penetrate Israels defense systems. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.Airlines in the Gulf adjust routesAs a precaution, several Gulf airlines have adjusted their flight paths following the attack, avoiding areas of heightened military activity.Guterres controversial statementIn response to the escalating violence, Guterres released a brief statement on Tuesday, referencing only the latest attacks in the Middle East and broadly condemning the cycle of violence without directly naming Iran. This neutral stance came as Israeli troops were deployed into southern Lebanon, further fueling regional tensions.Israels strong reactionIsraeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized Guterres for his failure to specifically condemn Irans missile strikes. Katz stated that such an omission rendered Guterres persona non grata in Israel.Anyone who cannot unequivocally condemn Irans heinous attack on Israel, as nearly all the countries of the world have done, does not deserve to set foot on Israeli soil, Katz declared, emphasizing Israels commitment to defending its citizens.Katz further stressed, Israel will continue to defend its citizens and uphold its national dignity, with or without Antonio Guterres.
