The United Nations Security Council is convening an emergency session today at 10:00 AM local time (14:00 GMT) to discuss Israel’s controversial plan to capture and occupy Gaza City, a move that has provoked widespread international condemnation and heightened fears of a humanitarian disaster.

The session, requested by the United Kingdom, France, Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia, follows the Israeli Security Cabinet’s approval last Friday of an operation aimed at seizing control of Gaza City — home to nearly one million Palestinians, many of whom have been displaced multiple times during the nearly two-year conflict.

UN Chief Warns of “Dangerous Escalation”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern over the plan, describing it as a “dangerous escalation” in the ongoing conflict that risks intensifying the already catastrophic humanitarian situation. In a statement released yesterday, Guterres warned of “additional forced displacement, killings, and massive destruction” that would further devastate the civilian population of Gaza, where shortages of food, water, and medical supplies are critical.

He reiterated urgent calls for a permanent ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access, and the immediate release of all hostages held amid the conflict.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amid Israeli Genocidal Campaign

The toll from Israeli military operations in Gaza since October 2023 has been staggering. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, at least 61,369 Palestinians have been killed, including 17,400 children, with over 152,850 injured. An estimated 14,222 people remain missing, presumed dead. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate sharply, with the United Nations reporting that no aid has entered Gaza through UNRWA for more than 150 days.

Local authorities confirm that 217 Palestinians, including 100 children, have died from starvation since the war began, with five additional deaths in the past 24 hours. Aid supplies remain critically low and are being sold at exorbitant prices. A severe heatwave and damaged infrastructure, such as the South Gaza Desalination Plant, which is functioning at less than 14% capacity, exacerbate the crisis.

Global Leaders and Organizations Condemn Operation

A coalition of foreign ministers from Australia, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement condemning the operation, warning it may violate international humanitarian law, worsen the humanitarian crisis, and place hostages at greater risk. Palestinian Authority UN envoy Riyad Mansour described the plan as “crazy, irresponsible, dangerous, and vicious,” urging the Security Council to take decisive action.

Diplomatic sources, however, predict that the session may end without a resolution or joint statement due to anticipated opposition from the United States, which has historically vetoed measures critical of Israel.

Voices from Gaza and Around the World

Residents of Gaza City expressed despair at the impending operation. Umm Youssef, a local, said, “What does Israel want from us? The area is all rubble. There is nothing here to occupy. I have to walk every day for more than 15 minutes just to get drinking water.”

Protests against Israel’s plans erupted globally, with demonstrations held from Istanbul to Santiago, condemning what many activists call a genocide against the Palestinian people.

International Legal Proceedings Continue Amid Conflict

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice. Despite mounting legal challenges and international criticism, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz dismissed global condemnation, stating, “Countries around the world that condemn and threaten sanctions will not weaken our resolve.”

Divided International Community Faces Crucial Moment

As the Security Council convenes, deep divisions remain on how best to address the escalating conflict. The civilians of Gaza continue to suffer the most, caught amid warfare, starvation, and displacement. The outcome of today’s emergency session could influence future diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further catastrophe in the region. (ILKHA)