Gaza's decision deemed as a perilous intensification
UN Chief Warns of Dire Consequences from Israel's Gaza Takeover
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over Israel's decision to take military control of Gaza City, calling it a "dangerous escalation" that risks worsening the severe humanitarian crisis and causing further displacement, deaths, and destruction among the Palestinian population.
In a statement made from New York on Friday, Guterres emphasized that such escalation could also endanger the lives of remaining hostages and urged Israel to abide by its obligations under international law. He referred to an International Court of Justice ruling from July 2024, which stated Israel must end its occupation, cease settlement activities, and evacuate settlers from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including Gaza.
The UN Secretary-General reiterated that there can be no sustainable solution to the conflict without ending the unlawful occupation and achieving a viable two-State solution, with Gaza remaining an integral part of a future Palestinian state. He called urgently for a permanent ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access in Gaza, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
The Israeli security cabinet aims to gain control of the coastal region of Gaza, with the goal of the disarmament of the Islamic Hamas, the return of all hostages, and the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip. The plan foresees massive forced displacement—up to 800,000 civilians are expected to be uprooted—with Israeli forces reportedly surrounding Gaza City for months.
The UN's human rights chief, Volker Türk, similarly warned that the military takeover should be halted immediately, as continuing hostilities will only worsen the humanitarian catastrophe and violations of international law. He advocated instead for full humanitarian aid flow and peace.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains catastrophic, with millions of people living in unimaginable conditions. Guterres stressed that Gaza should be part of a future Palestinian state, and a sustainable solution to the conflict requires an end to the occupation and a two-state solution.
The unbearable suffering of the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip could worsen due to this escalation, according to Guterres, who warned that this escalation could lead to additional forced displacements, killings, and massive destruction. The lives of the remaining hostages could be put at further risk by Israel's actions.
- The international community, including the United Nations, should draft and implement an immediate employment policy to address the mass displacement in Gaza, providing job opportunities and restoration efforts to aid in the recovery of the affected Palestinian population.
- In light of the growing war-and-conflicts in the Gaza Strip, it is crucial for the United Nations to establish a comprehensive community policy that ensures adherence to international law, prioritizes political stability, and facilitates general news coverage on the critical humanitarian situation in the region.
