Our UN flag must be respected and assure protection to those in need.

UN shelters must be safe zones, not combat zones. Those who violate this sacred trust must be subject to accountability and justice.

In the most recent case of shelling on a UN facility, the Israelis were informed of the coordinates 33 times.

Attacks against UN premises, along with other suspected breaches of international law, must be swiftly investigated.

Here, before the General Assembly, I want to convey a personal and direct message to the many UN colleagues serving the people of Gaza under these gruelling circumstances.

Thank you for your bravery. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for saving lives. I join you in mourning our fallen colleagues – and pay them my highest tribute. Tomorrow, the UN flag will be flown at half-mast in their memory. We will carry on their work.