UN Chief Cautions Against Israeli Pressure, Sounds Alarm on Failing Climate Targets

UN Chief Warns of Israeli ‘Intimidation,’ Global Climate Goals at Risk.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday urged the world not to be “intimidated” by Israel amid threats to annex parts of the occupied West Bank, while warning that global climate targets are close to collapse.

In an AFP interview ahead of the UN General Assembly’s high-level week, Guterres said international recognition of a Palestinian state should continue despite potential Israeli retaliation. “There is a chance to mobilize the international community to put pressure for them not to happen,” he said, describing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as “horrendous,” with famine, mass displacement, and collapsing health care.

The gathering of over 140 world leaders will focus on Gaza and Palestinian statehood, with France reporting that 10 countries plan to recognize Palestine despite Israeli objections.

On climate, Guterres warned that the target to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels is faltering. He called on nations to submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions and reduce emissions urgently, noting that current warming stands at 1.4°C ahead of COP30 in Brazil.