What's happened
Israel's war cabinet approved plans to take control of Gaza City, prompting international criticism and UK calls for de-escalation. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the move, emphasizing the worsening humanitarian crisis and urging a ceasefire, hostage release, and negotiated peace. The decision marks a significant escalation in the 22-month conflict.
What's behind the headline?
The recent approval by Israel's war cabinet to take control of Gaza City signifies a sharp escalation in the conflict, risking further humanitarian disaster and regional instability. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's condemnation underscores growing international concern, particularly over the worsening conditions in Gaza, where hospitals report rising deaths due to famine and malnutrition. The decision to escalate military operations appears to ignore the broader goal of a negotiated two-state solution, instead risking a cycle of violence that could entrench Hamas's position and prolong the conflict. The international community's response, including Germany halting arms exports, indicates a shift towards diplomatic pressure. The key outcome will depend on whether both sides can engage in meaningful negotiations or if the escalation leads to a wider regional conflict. The focus remains on the urgent need for a ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and hostage releases to prevent further tragedy.
What the papers say
The Mirror reports that Israel's decision to escalate the conflict has been met with condemnation, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging Israel to reconsider its plans, emphasizing that the move will only increase bloodshed and worsen the humanitarian crisis. The Guardian echoes this view, highlighting Starmer's call for de-escalation and a negotiated solution, criticizing Israel's plan to occupy Gaza City as 'wrong' and counterproductive. The New Arab provides additional context, noting that Starmer's government has threatened to recognize a Palestinian state if Israel does not take 'substantive steps,' including a ceasefire. The Independent features opposition leader Yair Lapid's criticism of the plan as a 'disaster' and warns that it plays into Hamas's hands. Overall, the coverage underscores a consensus among Western leaders that escalation will worsen the crisis, with calls for diplomacy and restraint gaining prominence.
How we got here
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has persisted for over 22 months, resulting in extensive casualties and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel's military has been engaged in ongoing operations, with recent plans for a major escalation including the potential occupation of Gaza City. International pressure has increased, with some countries and leaders calling for de-escalation and negotiations to avoid further bloodshed.
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More on these topics
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Gaza City, often simply called Gaza, is a city in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, and the capital of the Gaza Governorate. Located on the Mediterranean coast, 76.6 kilometres (47.6 mi) southwest of Jerusalem, it was home to Palestine's only port. With a popula