United Nations Radio

The situation in Gaza and southern Israel has worsened dramatically in the past 48 hours.

chaos in Gaza

That's what Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told a town hall meeting with UN staff Monday morning.
UN Spokeswoman Michele Montas says the Secretary-General stressed the need for Israel to do everything possible to protect civilians and to allow humanitarian assistance to reach those in need:

"Civilian suffering was already alarming, he said, but Israel's launch of a ground operation has only made it worse. The Secretary-General has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and expressed his extreme concern and disappointment."

The Secretary-General said there must be an immediate end to violence on both sides.
In a statement Sunday, the Secretary-General regretted that the Security Council has not been able to reach a consensus, including during its emergency session held Saturday evening, in order to bring about an end to the violence.
This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.
(duration: 53")