UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a strong appeal for "a humanitarian ceasefire" between Israel and Hamas.

Guterres spoke with reporters in New York on Monday. He said, "The nightmare in Gaza is more than a humanitarian crisis. It is a crisis of humanity."

The UN chief stressed that the conflict is destroying many innocent lives.

He said, "Ground operations by the Israel Defense Forces and continued bombardment are hitting civilians, hospitals, refugee camps, mosques, churches and UN facilities -- including shelters." He added that no one is safe.

Guterres also condemned Hamas for carrying out the deadly attack in Israel on October 7 and capturing hundreds of hostages.

He accused the Palestinian Islamic group of using civilians as human shields and indiscriminately launching rockets toward Israel.

The UN chief said that "Gaza is becoming a graveyard for children." He added, "The way forward is clear."

He stated that he wants "a humanitarian ceasefire. Now. All parties respecting all their obligations under international humanitarian law. Now." He also said, "This means the unconditional release of the hostages in Gaza. Now. The protection of civilians, hospitals, UN facilities, shelters and schools. Now. More food, more water, more medicine and of course fuel -- entering Gaza safely, swiftly and at the scale needed. Now."