Five Nations Condemn Israeli Plan to Seize Gaza City

In a coordinated statement, the foreign ministers of Australia, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom have strongly condemned Israel’s decision to launch a large-scale military operation in Gaza City. The move has been described as a potential violation of international humanitarian law, with the group of nations urging an immediate and permanent ceasefire to end the ongoing conflict.

The joint statement, released on August 8, 2025, highlights the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and the risk of further civilian displacement. It also calls on the Israeli government to address its recent registration system for international humanitarian organizations, which has raised concerns among aid groups.

Germany has taken a particularly strong stance, announcing that it will halt the export of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the decision was made in response to Israel’s plan to expand its military operations and to address the growing human suffering in Gaza.

The move marks a significant shift in Germany’s policy toward Israel, which has historically been a close ally. Merz acknowledged Israel’s right to disarm Hamas and secure the release of hostages, but he expressed concerns that the current plan makes it increasingly difficult to achieve these goals.

The Israeli security cabinet has approved the plan to take over Gaza City, a major escalation in the war. This move has drawn international criticism, with the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres calling it a “dangerous escalation” that risks deepening the humanitarian crisis for Palestinians.

Hamas has accused Israel of committing a “war crime” by taking control of Gaza City, claiming the government is indifferent to the fate of the hostages. Meanwhile, the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged Israel to reconsider its military plans, and Saudi Arabia has also condemned the move.

The international community is now watching closely as the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. With the humanitarian crisis worsening and the risk of further conflict increasing, the call for a ceasefire and a negotiated two-state solution remains at the forefront of diplomatic efforts.

As the conflict intensifies, the world is being asked to choose between continued violence or a path toward peace and reconciliation. The stakes are high for all parties involved.