A top United Nations official has warned of “catastrophic consequences” if Israel expands its military operations in Gaza, following allegations that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pressing for total reoccupation. Assistant Secretary General Miroslav Jenča warned the UN Security Council that such a move would be “deeply alarming” and may imperil the lives of Palestinians and Israeli captives held by Hamas. Israeli media reported that Netanyahu intends to meet with his security cabinet this week. “The die has been cast.” “We intend to complete the conquest of the Gaza Strip and defeat Hamas,” a top Israeli official was reported as saying.
The security cabinet, which is scheduled to meet on Thursday, would have to approve such an action. It has been argued that the idea is a bargaining tactic to put pressure on Hamas following the recent breakdown of ceasefire talks, or an attempt to shore up support among Netanyahu’s far-right coalition allies. When asked if he would back an Israeli plan to reoccupy all of Gaza, US President Donald Trump replied, “That’s pretty much going to be up to Israel.” Israel has been under increasing international pressure over the war in Gaza, where experts believe starvation is raging. Jenča urged against expanding Israel’s military actions.
“This would risk catastrophic consequences for millions of Palestinians and could further endanger the lives of the remaining hostages in Gaza,” he told reporters. He went on to say that under international law, Gaza “is and must remain an integral part of a future Palestinian state”. Israel’s military claimed it already has operational authority over 75% of Gaza, but the new plan would apparently call for conquering the whole region, including places where more than two million Palestinians already dwell. The suggestions have caused division in Israel, with allegations that the army chief and other military leaders oppose the strategy. The unidentified Israeli official said, “If that doesn’t work for the chief of staff, he should resign.”
The relatives of hostages have expressed concern that such a choice may jeopardise their loved ones. Israel said 49 hostages are still being held in Gaza, with 27 thought to be dead. Jenča urged the UN Security Council to declare a ceasefire and release all hostages immediately and unconditionally. Citing the “squalid” and “inhumane” conditions endured by Palestinians, he asked Israel to immediately permit the unhindered movement of adequate aid. “Israel continues to severely restrict humanitarian assistance entering Gaza, and the aid that is permitted to enter is grossly inadequate,” Jenča said.
On October 7, 2023, Israel started a military invasion in Gaza in response to Hamas’ onslaught on southern Israel, in which around 1,200 people were murdered and 251 more were taken as hostages. According to the health ministry in the Palestinian territories, Israel’s war operation has killed over 60,000 Palestinians.
English