International coalition criticizes Israel's proposed annexation of Gaza City, with Canada among the condemning nations
In a joint statement released on August 9, 2025, Canada, along with Australia, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, have expressed their opposition to Israel's plan to launch a large-scale military operation in Gaza City. The international partners believe that this operation will exacerbate the already critical humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Israel's plan, authorized by the Israeli cabinet on August 8, involves placing Gaza City under siege, evacuating about a million people to humanitarian zones, and eventually establishing operational control over Gaza. The plan has faced internal Israeli military objections due to expected high civilian and soldier casualties, with concerns that it plays into Hamas' strategic interests.
The joint statement from the countries today states that any attempts to annex territory or extend settlements would violate international law. However, the statement does not mention any specific timeline for the planned military operation in Gaza City or any other countries or organizations that have expressed similar concerns or taken similar actions.
The goal of the operation, as stated by Israel, is to gain control of Gaza City and rout Hamas. The international partners are concerned about the potential danger to the lives of hostages still being held. The operation is expected to result in further mass movement of civilians.
Regarding Canada, while specific detailed statements or sanctions related to this new Gaza City control plan are not explicitly found in the available search results, Canada's general position on Israel-Palestine conflicts historically involves support for Israel’s right to security matched with calls for humanitarian consideration and adherence to international law. Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a similar message on Friday, but did not specify whether Canada would consider sanctions against Israel.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) and other bodies have urged an immediate halt to the plan, framing it as an occupation and raising legal and humanitarian warnings. The statement from the countries does not state whether they will take any further action beyond expressing their concern over potential violations of international law. The statement does not provide details on the specific territories or settlements they are referring to, nor does it mention the potential danger to hostages or the long-term holding of Palestinian territory as concerns.
In conclusion, the international community has expressed strong opposition to Israel's plan for Gaza City, citing concerns over humanitarian impacts and violations of international law. While Canada has historically supported Israel’s security while advocating for humanitarian considerations and adherence to international law, the country has not yet announced any specific sanctions or actions related to this situation. For the latest official statements or sanctions status, official government websites or recent news releases would be the best source.
"The international opposition to Israel's plan for Gaza City, as expressed by Canada, Australia, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, extends beyond the proposed military operation, encompassing politics and general news such as territorial annexation, settlements extension, and adherence to international law. These countries' concerns are rooted in potential violations of human rights and international law, which could exacerbate the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza City."
"In addition to expressing concern, some international bodies like the International Court of Justice have urged an immediate halt to the plan, citing occupation, legal, and humanitarian warnings. However, it remains unclear whether these countries or other organizations will take further action beyond voicing their concerns, or whether specific sanctions will be implemented, particularly by Canada."
