"Israel's proposed takeover of Gaza City elicits strong condemnation from the UN chief, with references to severe humanitarian hardship."
Israel's decision to take control of Gaza City has met with significant criticism from the international community, with concerns centering around the worsening humanitarian impact on the Palestinian population.
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has strongly condemned the move, expressing concern that it could deepen the crisis for millions of Palestinians and endanger more lives. Guterres urged Israel to abide by the July 2024 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice to end its presence in Palestinian territory, including Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem [1].
Stephanie Tremblay, the associate spokesperson, stated that Guterres has also warned that an Israeli offensive will result in additional forced displacement, killings, and massive destruction. Tremblay added that this would compound the unimaginable suffering of the Palestinian population in Gaza [1].
Japan has expressed similar concerns, stating that Israel's decision will exacerbate the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Japan emphasized the urgent need to address starvation and other crises and explicitly opposes actions that undermine the prospects for a two-state solution, calling for a return to negotiations and a ceasefire [1].
The Israeli operation, aimed at "defeating Hamas" following 22 months of conflict, was approved by the security cabinet. However, the decision stopped short of a full takeover, as initially proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu [1]. Netanyahu stated that Israel would eventually hand over control to Arab forces, ensuring a better life for Gazans without threat.
The condemnation was issued after a meeting of Israel's security cabinet on Thursday night [1]. The UN chief's statement warned that the fresh Israeli action risks deepening the already catastrophic consequences for millions of Palestinians [1]. The statement also expressed concern that the Israeli action could further endanger more lives, including those of the remaining hostages.
As the international community continues to express apprehension, it is clear that a diplomatic resolution and humanitarian considerations are at the forefront of global discussions regarding Israel's actions concerning Gaza City.
[1] Source: Reuters, The Jerusalem Post, and the United Nations News Centre.
The United Nations, along with Japan, has expressed strong opposition to Israel's decision over Gaza City, voicing concerns about the potential deepening crisis and increased suffering of millions of Palestinians. In light of the international community's apprehension, diplomatic resolution and humanitarian considerations are at the forefront of global discussions.
