World leaders slam Israel's plan for Gaza City
Israel's Security Cabinet Approves Plan to Take Control of Gaza City
Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan to take control of Gaza City. The announcement did not explicitly state that Israel would take full control of the Gaza Strip, although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously indicated this intention. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel does not plan to "occupy Gaza."
The plan has faced criticism from world leaders, Israel's military chief, and hostage families. Hamas has condemned the plan as a "full-fledged war crime" with significant consequences.
In response to the plan, Germany, the second-largest arms supplier to Israel, announced a halt to arms exports that could be used by Israel in Gaza.
International concern is mounting over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where limited aid access and reports of violence at aid sites persist. Israel restricts international journalists from independently reporting in Gaza.
Several Middle Eastern countries have condemned Israel's approval of the plan to take control of Gaza City. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have criticized the move and called for action from the United Nations. They reaffirmed their support for a two-state solution.
A satellite image captured near Israel's Nahal Oz crossing into Gaza shows a significant deployment of military vehicles, two miles from Gaza City. The approval of plans to capture the city over the next five months has raised concerns.
Hostage families have expressed dismay over the government's priorities, with concerns that the plan may endanger hostages and escalate violence in the region.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert warned that the plan to take control of Gaza City could lead to more casualties and crimes. He emphasized the need to prioritize the safe return of hostages and the region's rehabilitation.
A United Nations inquiry found war crimes committed by both Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Olmert attributed the decision to Netanyahu's political agenda.
France, Ireland, and Canada have criticized Israel's plans to take control of Gaza City, expressing concerns over international law violations and the impact on regional stability.
US Vice President JD Vance reiterated the US stance against recognizing a Palestinian state, emphasizing the goals of eliminating Hamas as a threat and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The breakdown of ceasefire talks and escalating tensions have raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The decision to occupy Gaza City has faced backlash from various countries and organizations.
Israel's security cabinet's approval of the plan has sparked internal and international criticism, highlighting the complex dynamics and challenges in the region.