Israel’s plan to take full control of Gaza City has triggered a massive wave of international condemnation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the move as a “dangerous escalation” that could worsen the humanitarian crisis, endanger civilians, and undermine prospects for a two-state solution. The Israeli government’s decision, approved by its cabinet, is seen as potentially forcing the displacement of hundreds of thousands of residents and sparking new tensions in the Middle East.

Guterres stressed that any action exacerbating civilian suffering violates international humanitarian law. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk warned that the plan could force more than 800,000 Palestinians to flee their homes. He called for an immediate halt to military operations in Gaza City and urged all parties to respect their obligations under international law.

According to official UN statements, there is also deep concern over the direct impact on hundreds of hostages still held in the conflict zone. Large-scale military operations, the UN warned, risk worsening security conditions and reducing chances for a lasting cease-fire.

Condemnation of Israel has poured in from across the globe. Western nations including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia voiced strong opposition. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the move would only worsen an already dire humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, the European Union, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan called the action a threat to regional stability and long-term peace.

Countries like Germany and the UK have openly supported the UN’s call to cancel the takeover plan. They reaffirmed the importance of diplomacy and political solutions that respect the rights of the Palestinian people.

In response to rising tensions, the UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Sunday, August 10, 2025. The meeting, initiated by the UK, Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia, will focus on assessing the consequences of Israel’s move, its implications under international law, and possible actions the international community can take to de-escalate the situation.

This session is expected to be a critical forum for expressing global positions and applying diplomatic pressure on Israel. However, observers note that divisions among permanent members of the Security Council could hinder the adoption of a strong resolution.

Conditions in Gaza City are already at a breaking point. The UN reports that basic infrastructure such as clean water, electricity, and healthcare services is on the verge of collapse. Expanded military operations would further restrict access to humanitarian aid, which is already severely limited by blockades.

International aid organizations warn that a new wave of displacement could occur if Israel’s plan proceeds. This could worsen the regional refugee crisis and place additional burdens on neighboring countries.

Amid the international backlash, mediators from the United States and Qatar are working to craft a package of proposals that includes a cease-fire and a hostage exchange deal. These efforts aim to halt the escalation and create space for constructive dialogue between the warring parties.

Yet without genuine commitment from both sides, the chances of success remain slim. International relations experts believe sustained global pressure may be the only way to stop the plan.

The political and humanitarian shockwaves from the Gaza City takeover plan underscore the fragility of stability in the Middle East. Decisions made at the UN Security Council’s emergency session could determine whether the conflict moves toward a peaceful resolution or spirals further into violence. The world now watches to see if diplomacy can overcome the logic of arms, or if this crisis will open a new chapter of uncertainty threatening regional peace.