Doha: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned of the resumption of combat operations in Gaza, expressing his concern about the occurrence of a massive tragedy in the Strip if fighting takes place.

According to Qatar News Agency, in a statement, Guterres stressed the importance of full adherence to the Gaza ceasefire deal and resuming serious negotiations, noting the high stakes of retargeting the civilians in the enclave.

His remarks come amid concerns over the Israeli occupation resuming hostilities in Gaza after Hamas rejected Israel's continued breaches of the ceasefire.

The truce, declared by Hamas and the Israeli entity, took effect on Jan. 19, halting a 16-month war.