Netanyahu Defends Gaza City Offensive Amid International Criticism
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended plans to seize Gaza City, asserting it as the swiftest route to conclude the conflict, despite mounting international condemnation and warnings from the United Nations about potential humanitarian crises.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended the military's plan to seize control of Gaza City, describing it as the most expedient method to end the ongoing conflict.
"Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily," Netanyahu stated during a press conference.
The Israeli security cabinet approved the operation early Friday, aiming to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages held in the enclave. However, the plan has drawn significant international criticism. United Nations Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenča warned that implementing the plan could lead to "another calamity" in Gaza, exacerbating forced displacement, fatalities, and destruction.
Ramesh Rajasingham, head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, noting that since October 2023, 98 children have died from severe acute malnutrition, with 37 deaths occurring since July 1 alone.
Several countries, including the United Kingdom, Russia, China, and France, have expressed strong opposition to Israel's military plan, citing potential violations of international law. The United States, while defending Israel's actions, faces increasing isolation on the global stage. US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea accused some Security Council members of "actively prolonging the war by spreading lies about Israel" and "handing propaganda victories to terrorists."
Domestically, Netanyahu's plan has faced criticism from within his government. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich questioned the strategy's effectiveness, suggesting it might merely push Hamas back to ceasefire talks without achieving a decisive victory.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with reports of increasing malnutrition and starvation. The UN has reported that at least 217 people, including 100 children, have died from malnutrition during the conflict.
As international condemnation grows, the UN Security Council is expected to discuss the humanitarian implications of Israel's planned offensive in Gaza City.
Source
CNNFact-checking
Fact-check the facts of the article using external sources and databases.