Netanyahu’s Gaza Offensive Faces Global Backlash at UN Security Council

Netanyahu's assertions at the UN Security Council draw widespread concern about the humanitarian implications of Israel's plans, as protests erupt across Israel against the military actions in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stood firm in defending his government's controversial military plans for Gaza City during a heated session at the United Nations Security Council. In a bid to clarify what he termed "lies," Netanyahu claimed the planned offensive is crucial for "freeing Gaza from Hamas." He indicated that the operation would proceed swiftly and asserted that the Israeli hostages in Gaza were the only ones facing starvation, firmly denying claims that the Israeli government was imposing starvation on Gazans.

The emergency Security Council meeting saw the United Kingdom, France, and various other nations sharply criticize Israel's intentions, suggesting that the military strategy could breach international humanitarian law. These nations, joined by Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia, urged a reversal of the plan, highlighting concerns that it would do little to facilitate the return of hostages and might further endanger their lives.

Countries such as China and Russia expressed alarm, with China denouncing the "collective punishment" imposed on Gaza's population and Russia cautioning against a potentially disastrous escalation of conflict. UN Assistant Secretary General Miroslav Jenca warned of a looming humanitarian crisis in Gaza that could spiral into greater regional turmoil if Israeli military actions were implemented. Ramesh Rajasingham from the UN's humanitarian office labeled the situation in Gaza as "pure and simple starvation,” noting a drastic deterioration in living conditions.

In contrast, the United States took Israel's side, with Ambassador Dorothy Shea stating the US was endeavoring diligently to secure the release of hostages and bring an end to hostilities. She criticized the council's meeting for undermining these efforts, asserting that "the war could end today if Hamas released the hostages," and claimed accusations of genocide against Israel were unfounded.

Protests erupted across Israel, with many citizens speaking out against the government's approach, fearing it could jeopardize the lives of hostages still in captivity. Netanyahu outlined a strategy to dismantle remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and pledged to improve humanitarian access by implementing safe corridors and increasing aid distribution efforts. However, he accused Hamas of obstructing aid deliveries.

The Hamas-controlled health ministry reported ongoing casualties due to starvation, citing a troubling death toll attributed to the ongoing military campaign. Netanyahu's responses included criticism of international media coverage of the humanitarian crisis, labeling some of the showcased visuals as fabrications. Additionally, it was noted that Israel has restricted international media from freely covering developments in Gaza, although Netanyahu mentioned a recent order allowing foreign journalists entry for reporting.

With tensions rising, the situation remains precarious, particularly after Israel began its military offensive following a deadly Hamas attack in October 2023 that left hundreds dead and many hostages taken. The developments in Gaza continue to provoke fierce debate and concern over the potential humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict.