International Outcry Mounts as Netanyahu Pushes Gaza City Takeover Amid Starvation Warnings

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing intensified global condemnation following his defense of a planned military takeover of Gaza City, a move that United Nations officials warn will precipitate “another calamity” in the besieged and starving enclave. Speaking at a rare international press conference on Sunday, Netanyahu insisted the controversial operation is the swiftest route to ending the ongoing conflict.

The plan, greenlit by Israel’s security cabinet early Friday, aims to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages. However, it has ignited fears for the safety of captives and is expected to worsen an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis. The UN Security Council witnessed strong opposition on Sunday, with the United Kingdom, Russia, China, and France among nations condemning the proposed operation as a potential “further violation of international law” that could trigger “further forced displacement, killings, and destruction.”

UN humanitarian officials have characterized the situation in Gaza as “starvation, pure and simple,” citing a dramatic increase in hunger-related deaths, particularly among children. UNICEF reported an alarming 12,000 children identified with acute malnutrition in July alone, marking the highest monthly figure on record. Despite these dire reports, Netanyahu continues to dispute the existence of a starvation crisis, attributing food shortages to Hamas.

The United States, increasingly isolated internationally, continues to back Israel’s actions, with its UN Ambassador Dorothy Shea accusing Security Council members of prolonging the war. Concurrently, global protests against the conflict and humanitarian catastrophe are escalating, with significant demonstrations in Sydney and London over the past week. Within Israel, families of hostages are advocating for a nationwide general strike. Analysts suggest Netanyahu’s push for the Gaza City takeover, which would expand Israeli control, may also serve his domestic political agenda.

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