UN warns of catastrophic fallout if Israel expands Gaza assault

The United Nations has expressed grave concern over reports that Israel may expand its military operations across the entire Gaza Strip, warning that such a move could have catastrophic consequences for civilians already enduring immense suffering.

Addressing a UN Security Council session on Tuesday, Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenča said any further escalation “would risk catastrophic consequences” and could endanger the lives of the remaining hostages. He added that international law is unequivocal: “Gaza is and must remain an integral part of the future Palestinian state.”

The comments follow Israeli media reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met senior security officials to finalise a new war strategy, reportedly favouring a full military takeover of Gaza—a move likely to escalate an already devastating humanitarian crisis.

China’s deputy UN envoy, Geng Shuang, echoed the alarm, urging Israel to “immediately halt such dangerous actions.” He called for an immediate ceasefire and pressed countries with influence to take meaningful steps to stop the violence.

Ahead of the session, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticised countries pushing for the recognition of Palestinian statehood, claiming their actions had “assassinated” a potential ceasefire and hostage deal. His remarks came as France, Canada, and the UK announced plans to recognise Palestinian statehood at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September—unless Israel makes concrete moves to end the suffering in Gaza.

Meanwhile, the United States dismissed a UN-hosted ministerial conference that called for a renewed focus on a two-state solution as “an unproductive publicity stunt.” US Deputy Ambassador Dorothy Shea claimed it had undermined ongoing mediation efforts.

The humanitarian toll remains staggering. Gaza has endured months of continuous bombardment, mass displacement, and critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Rights groups have warned of growing famine-like conditions and the collapse of essential infrastructure.

In a deeply emotional plea, Ilay David, the brother of an Israeli hostage recently shown in a Hamas-released video, addressed the Security Council and urged immediate international action. He called for the release of hostages and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.

Observers warn that any large-scale military expansion would deepen the humanitarian crisis and risk further violations of international law, which prohibits collective punishment and requires the protection of civilians—even in armed conflict.