**UN Sounds Alarm Over Proposed Expansion of Israeli Military Operations in Gaza**

A top UN official expressed grave concerns regarding Israel's potential plans to expand military operations in Gaza, emphasizing the catastrophic humanitarian consequences that could ensue. Miroslav Jenča, the UN's Assistant Secretary General, addressed the UN Security Council, stating that if reports about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's push for a total takeover of Gaza were accurate, such actions could perilously escalate the already dire situation for the Palestinian population and increase risks to Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

As Netanyahu prepares to convene his security cabinet to discuss the situation, speculation arises that the proposed reoccupation could serve as a strategy to apply pressure on Hamas or solidify support from members of his far-right coalition amid faltering ceasefire negotiations. The military's current control of 75% of Gaza raises questions about the need for an expanded campaign, with some military leaders reportedly opposing further action. Jenča called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and unrestricted humanitarian aid to alleviate the ongoing crisis in Gaza, where reports indicate severe malnutrition and rampant deaths due to starvation.

UN agencies have described the situation as a man-made disaster, with a high death toll reported among civilians since the onset of conflict following Hamas's attack on October 7, leading to a massive military response from Israel.