New York: Israel's recent move to take over Gaza City may "ignite another horrific chapter" in the ongoing conflict, warned a senior United Nations official during an emergency Security Council session. Delegates cautioned that this escalation could displace a million people and worsen the already dire humanitarian situation.
According to EMM, Miroslav Jenca, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, and Americas, pointed out that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to "defeat Hamas" involves several steps. These include disarming Hamas, releasing all hostages, demilitarizing the Gaza Strip, maintaining Israeli security control over the area, and setting up an alternative civilian administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority. The Israel Defense Forces are preparing to take control of Gaza City while ensuring humanitarian aid is delivered outside combat zones.
Jenca expressed concern over this dangerous escalation, noting that Israel aims to displace all civilians from Gaza City by October 2025, impacting approximately 800,000 people, many of whom have been previously displaced. Reports suggest that the Israel Defense Forces would encircle the city for three months, followed by an additional two months to gain control over central Gaza's camps and clear Palestinian armed groups from the area. He emphasized the severe humanitarian conditions, describing them as "beyond horrific" and highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
During the session, many speakers condemned Israel's plan. Algeria's delegate criticized the decision to displace Gaza City's population and impose full military control. The UK and Russian Federation delegates echoed these sentiments, warning that the expansion of Israel's military operation would lead to more bloodshed and undermine peace prospects in the Middle East.
Denmark's delegate highlighted the famine-like conditions in the Strip, calling for transparent investigations into civilian deaths while seeking food. France's representative urged Israel to allow the UN and humanitarian actors to operate safely. Greece's delegate opposed any forced displacement of the Palestinian population, stating that annexation would violate international law.
Slovenia's delegate questioned the future of displaced Palestinians, while Guyana's representative condemned Israel's actions and called for decisive Council measures to save lives. Pakistan's delegate accused Israel of ethnic cleansing and called for an international protection force.
Kuwait, speaking for the Gulf Cooperation Council, demanded urgent measures to stop the aggression. Panama's delegate, as Council President for August, emphasized the need for humanitarian aid instead of conflict. China and Senegal also called for a ceasefire and protection for civilians.
Sierra Leone's representative argued for genuine normalization based on the Arab Peace Initiative, while Iraq's delegate advocated for Palestinian rights. Somalia's representative warned against Israel's military control plans and stressed the need for justice.
The Permanent Observer for Palestine highlighted a plan for the Palestinian Authority to resume control in Gaza with international support, accusing Israel of aiming to destroy the Palestinian people. In contrast, the US delegate blamed Hamas for rejecting ceasefire proposals and defended Israel's right to security.
Israel's delegate asserted that their military actions aim to liberate Gaza from a terror regime, not to occupy it permanently. He urged the Council to dismantle Hamas and prevent future atrocities.