UN warns Israel against expanding Gaza operations

The United Nations has warned that a wider Israeli military operation in Gaza could have catastrophic consequences and further endanger hostages.

At a UN Security Council meeting on Tuesday, UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca said that such a move would risk "catastrophic consequences" and further endanger the remaining hostages held in Gaza.

“International law is clear in this regard. Gaza is and must remain an integral part of the future Palestinian state,” Jenca added, emphasizing the need for restraint and renewed efforts toward peace.

The comments came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly held talks with senior security officials to finalise a new strategy for the ongoing war in Gaza, with local media suggesting he favoured a full military takeover of the enclave.

At the UN ahead of the meeting, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized countries recognizing Palestinian statehood, claiming such moves sabotaged ceasefire efforts and a possible hostage deal.

France, Canada, and Britain have all indicated plans to recognize Palestinian statehood in September if Israel does not take concrete steps to address the crisis in Gaza.

The meeting also heard emotional appeals from families of hostages. Ilay David, brother of Israeli hostage Evyatar David, urged the Council to act urgently to ensure the release of hostages and the delivery of humanitarian aid. He described his brother as a “living skeleton” in a video released by Hamas and warned that “every moment of delay is a step closer to final tragic outcome.”

He added that the video had left his family devastated. “My father cannot sleep, and my mother has not stopped crying ever since.”

The war in Gaza has entered its second year with no ceasefire in place, as humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate and diplomatic tensions rise.

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