UN Urges Israel to Halt Gaza Occupation Plan Immediately

The United Nations has issued a strong call for Israel to abandon its recently announced plan for a full-scale military takeover of the Gaza Strip, warning that such a move would violate international law and further worsen the humanitarian crisis.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, speaking on Friday, said that the Israeli government's intentions to take full control of Gaza contradict international legal obligations and risk prolonging the suffering of the civilian population. “This plan must be halted immediately,” Türk declared, pointing to the recent ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which called on Israel to end its occupation as soon as possible.

According to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, the Israeli military has been instructed to prepare for a complete ground control of Gaza City as part of a broader strategy to “defeat” Hamas. The plan also includes distributing humanitarian assistance to civilians outside designated combat zones. However, critics, including senior UN officials, argue that such moves would amount to permanent occupation and forced displacement, which are violations of international law.

“The announced plan flies in the face of the ICJ ruling, undermines the prospect of a two-state solution, and violates the Palestinian people's right to self-determination,” Türk said. He also emphasised that any military operation should not be used as a pretext for territorial expansion or long-term occupation.

The UN rights chief called on Israel to immediately facilitate the full and unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza, warning of catastrophic consequences if access continues to be obstructed. "Unhindered humanitarian assistance is not optional—it is a legal and moral obligation," he added.

Türk also reiterated that Palestinian armed groups must unconditionally release all hostages currently being held. At the same time, he urged Israeli authorities to release Palestinians who are being arbitrarily detained, stressing that respect for international humanitarian and human rights law must be upheld by all parties.

As Gaza continues to reel from months of war, international pressure is mounting on Israel to de-escalate military operations and seek diplomatic avenues to resolve the conflict. The UN, along with other global bodies, continues to advocate for a negotiated solution grounded in human rights and international law.