UN chief says situation in Gaza 'appalling and apocalyptic'

At a Cairo conference aimed at increasing humanitarian aid, in a speech by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, remarks read out on his behalf, described the situation in war-torn Gaza was "appalling and apocalyptic", warning conditions faced by Palestinians in the territory may amount to the "gravest international crimes".  "Malnutrition is rampant... Famine is imminent. Meanwhile, the health system has collapsed," he said. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the international community to "build a foundation for sustainable peace in Gaza and across the Middle East".