A senior United Nations official issued a dire warning that Israel’s proposed military operation to seize Gaza City will unleash “another calamity” into an already devastated region. Miroslav Jenca, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas at the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs has advised world leaders to push for an immediate ceasefire, hostage release and renewed commitment towards two state solution (dppa.un.org). UN Issues Urgent Warning to Security Council Addressing the UN Security Council, Jenca warned of catastrophic humanitarian consequences from any offensive on Gaza, noting its current struggles of hunger, displacement and ongoing violence; further military escalation would only compound their suffering. As reported in The Australian and Al Jazeera. Days Before UN Warning Israeli Security Cabinet had approved an Israeli plan to take control of Gaza City–the largest population center in Gaza Strip–in order to take over Palestinian-owned territories there. International responses came quickly; UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres labeled this move as a dangerous escalation and warned of mass displacement as soon as it happened (AP News +15 The Guardian + The Times). Under a backdrop of starvation, Gaza has experienced dramatic deterioration: at least 217 Palestinians including 100 children have succumbed to hunger-related causes and died since 2000, according to Al Jazeera +15% International and Domestic Outrage Grow Western states – such as Germany, France, the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand- have strongly denounced the offensive, warning that it violates international law, jeopardize humanitarian aid and lead to further civilian suffering. Germany even suspended military exports potentially used in this operation (WCVB + 3), AP News +3 and The Guardian Inside Israel, opposition is mounting quickly as well. Families of hostages have expressed concerns for their loved ones’ wellbeing as opposition figures and former military officials caution of potential lasting conflict and casualties resulting from this plan. The Australian has reported this development at length (+9 per Reuters). Legal Implications and Regional Stability Many observers argue that Israel’s plan could violate international humanitarian and human rights law, particularly regarding forced displacement and civilian protection. The UN issued an urgent humanitarian warning regarding Israel’s strategy as well as geopolitical and legal stakes related to it (AP News). Momentum for Diplomacy and Ceasefire UN officials and diplomats are calling for a shift towards political resolution of Syria, pushing for ceasefire negotiations, safe hostage release agreements, meaningful diplomatic channels to build sustainable peace, as well as meaningful Security Council engagement to aid this cause. This could prove pivotal in shaping its trajectory.
