Israel urged to rescind Gaza policy by Denmark
Israel's political-security cabinet has approved a plan to escalate military operations in Gaza, aiming to take control of Gaza City. This move comes as part of ongoing operations in the region, with the stated objective of recovering hostages held by Hamas.
The decision has sparked strong international condemnation and calls for its immediate halt. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres have warned that the offensive would cause more forced displacement, killings, and massive destruction, worsening the already catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Guterres described the military takeover as a "dangerous escalation" that risks further endangering lives, including those of hostages. Amnesty International’s Secretary-General Agnès Callamard called the decision "outrageous and revolting," emphasizing that it violates international law, including the International Court of Justice's ruling that Israel must end its occupation of Palestinian territories. She warned the plan would lead to "extraordinary levels of suffering" amid ongoing starvation and genocidal conditions.
The European Union Council President Antonio Costa urged Israel to reconsider, stating such actions undermine international law and worsen humanitarian conditions while violating prior agreements with the EU. The U.S. State Department has been more cautious, noting a distinction between reports and confirmed plans, but affirmed focus on freeing hostages and preventing Hamas from ruling Gaza again.
The approved plan marks an escalation in the conflict in Gaza, and critics, both at home and abroad, have expressed concern. The military operations are taking place despite intensifying criticism from various quarters, indicating a shift in Israel's strategy in dealing with the situation in Gaza. The humanitarian consequences of this escalation remain a significant concern, with experts warning of potential disaster for the nearly one million Palestinians living under severe conditions in Gaza City.
[1] BBC News, "Israel approves plan to take control of Gaza City," 2023-03-31. [2] Reuters, "Amnesty International slams Israel's Gaza City takeover plan," 2023-03-31. [3] Al Jazeera, "UN chief warns of 'dangerous escalation' in Gaza," 2023-03-31.
- The BBC News reported that the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, expressed concern over the index of the escalating military operations in Gaza, as he warned that the offensive would lead to more forced displacement, killings, and massive destruction.
- Amnesty International’s Secretary-General Agnès Callamard stated that the politics of Israel's decision to take control of Gaza City violates international law, including the International Court of Justice's ruling, and could result in "extraordinary levels of suffering" amid ongoing crisis conditions in Gaza City.
