The call comes from the chief of communications and public information for the United Nations Kiyo Akasaka who stresses the need for "full and independent" coverage of events unfolding in the territory which has been the target of the Israeli offensive launched nearly two weeks ago.
In a letter to Israel's Ambassador to the UN, Gabriela Shalev, UN Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information Kiyo Akasaka says "access to objective and factual information is of vital importance at all times, and plays a particularly important role in emergency situations."
He cites reports, including from the Foreign Press Association of Israel, that international media are not being allowed access to Gaza. And he reminds the Israeli Government of the right to information enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Mr. Akasaka also recalls the Security Council resolution in which the 15-member body urged all parties involved in situations of armed conflict to respect the professional independence and rights of journalists.
He says Member States have expressed a keen interest in what is taking place in Gaza, adding that it is "of great importance to all concerned that international reporting be allowed to take place so that accurate
information about the situation can inform global responses."
This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.
(duration: 1'16")