International Leaders Condemn Israel’s Move into Gaza City
European and world leaders have expressed strong criticism of Israel’s decision to seize control of Gaza City, warning that the move could worsen the already dire humanitarian crisis in the region. This has led to significant consequences, including Germany’s decision to halt the export of military equipment that could be used in Gaza.
The Israeli security cabinet approved the controversial plan early Friday, marking a new phase in the country’s ongoing conflict with Hamas. The decision was made after hours of debate among senior security officials. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously suggested that the military would “take control of all Gaza,” he also claimed that Israel does not intend to occupy the Strip permanently.
Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that the country will suspend the export of military equipment that could be used in Gaza until further notice. This marks a departure from the Staatsräson, a principle of German foreign policy that emphasizes Israel’s security as being closely tied to Germany’s national interest. Merz stated that the new military push by the Israeli security cabinet makes it unclear how the goals of the operation can be achieved. He emphasized that the German government will not authorize any military equipment exports that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice.
Merz added that the Israeli government bears even more responsibility for ensuring that civilians receive necessary supplies and urged them to avoid any steps towards the annexation of the West Bank. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also condemned the decision, calling it wrong and urging Israel to reconsider its actions. He warned that the escalation would only lead to more bloodshed and emphasized the need for a ceasefire, increased humanitarian aid, and a negotiated solution.
Starmer also stated that Hamas cannot play a role in the future of Gaza and must disarm. The UK is working with allies on a long-term strategy to achieve peace in the region through a two-state solution.
European Reactions Highlight Concerns
Other European leaders echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the takeover of Gaza would worsen the humanitarian situation and that a ceasefire is the only way to end the conflict with Hamas. Spain’s foreign affairs minister, José Manuel Albares, strongly condemned the decision, stating that it would only provoke more destruction and suffering. Similarly, the Netherlands’ foreign minister, Caspar Veldkamp, called the plan a “wrong move” and highlighted the catastrophic humanitarian conditions in the region.
Slovenia’s Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon strongly condemned the Israeli plans and urged Israel to halt any attempts to militarily occupy Gaza. Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen expressed extreme concern about the worsening conditions in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged the Israeli government to reconsider its decision to expand its military operations in Gaza, emphasizing the need for the release of hostages, humanitarian aid, and a ceasefire.
European Council President António Costa criticized Israel’s decision, stating that it violates international law and the recent EU agreement to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. He called for consequences for EU-Israel relations.
Mixed Reactions Within Israel
Reactions within Israel were divided. Opposition leader Yair Lapid denounced the government’s plan, claiming it goes against the advice of the military leadership. Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir warned that the plan could endanger the lives of hostages and stretch the military thin. Despite this, Netanyahu denied any intention of permanently controlling Gaza, stating that Israel wants to establish a security perimeter and hand over the Strip to a coalition of Arab forces.
Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis
Humanitarian organizations continue to warn of severe conditions in Gaza, where widespread hunger and displacement are increasing daily. The ongoing conflict has displaced nearly the entire population of Gaza, destroyed over 60% of the enclave’s buildings and infrastructure, and brought most of its 2 million residents to the brink of famine.
The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on 7 October 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Fifty hostages are still being held, although fewer than half are believed to be alive. Israel’s subsequent offensive resulted in the deaths of over 60,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. The Israeli military says nearly 900 of its soldiers have died since the start of the war.