EUROPE: European leaders criticise Israel’s Gaza City takeover decision as humanitarian concerns rise.
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European leaders and international officials have sharply criticised Israel’s decision to seize control of Gaza City, warning that the operation risks a catastrophic escalation of the humanitarian crisis in the besieged Palestinian territory. The criticism has intensified after Israel’s security cabinet approved a plan to take direct control of Gaza City, which is densely populated and already devastated by months of bombardment and civilian displacement.
European Council President António Costa said the move “must have consequences for EU-Israel relations” and indicated the council would assess potential diplomatic responses. Several EU capitals echoed concerns, stressing that any takeover of Gaza City could further hinder aid deliveries and put large numbers of civilians at extreme risk.
Germany announced an immediate suspension of some military exports that could be used in operations in Gaza, reflecting growing unease in Berlin about the humanitarian and political implications of the plan. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared the takeover plan “wrong” and urged Israeli leaders to reconsider, warning it would likely bring further bloodshed.
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United Nations officials have described the proposal as a “dangerous escalation”, highlighting the scale of destruction already seen across Gaza and the severe lack of functioning hospitals, water and shelter for displaced people. UN agencies have repeatedly warned that urban operations in Gaza City would amplify civilian suffering and complicate life-saving aid operations.
The decision has exposed tensions within Israel’s political and military leadership: reporting indicates a rift between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has pushed for a wider takeover of Gaza, and some senior military officials who have expressed reservations about a full reoccupation and the risks to soldiers and civilians alike. Analysts say this internal debate may shape the scope and timing of any ground operation.
Humanitarian groups and independent observers say Gaza City — long the territory’s largest urban centre — has already been ravaged by months of conflict, with large parts reduced to rubble and millions displaced or facing acute shortages of food, water and medical care. They warn that an occupation would compel further mass displacement into increasingly cramped areas and could trigger a wider regional backlash.
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European governments and international organisations have called for renewed diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access and urgent measures to protect civilians. Brussels signalled that it would consider diplomatic and economic measures if Israel pressed ahead with the takeover without adequate safeguards for civilians and aid corridors.
As world leaders debate responses, efforts to scale up humanitarian relief continue, but agencies warn that any large-scale military operation inside Gaza City will make relief operations vastly more difficult and place already vulnerable populations at even greater risk.
Sources: Euronews, Al Jazeera, The Guardian, The Washington Post, Reuters
