New york: Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations, Miroslav Jenca, has issued a stark warning regarding the Israeli cabinet’s recent decision to expand its military offensive within the Gaza Strip, specifically targeting full control of Gaza City.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Jenca addressed the UN Security Council during an emergency meeting focused on the ‘Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question.’ He cautioned that Israel’s latest decision could spark another severe conflict with repercussions extending beyond the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Jenca echoed the concerns of UN chief Ant³nio Guterres about the precarious situation of the two million civilians trapped in Gaza due to the ongoing Israeli blockade and military attacks.
While official specifics of Israel’s military strategy remain limited, Israeli media have reported plans to displace all civilians from Gaza City by October 7, 2025. This plan would affect approximately 800,000 people, many of whom have already been displaced, as noted by Jenca. He warned that the implementation of these plans would likely result in another humanitarian disaster in Gaza, with effects felt throughout the region. Jenca emphasized the necessity of a full, immediate, and permanent ceasefire to prevent further human suffering.
During his briefing, Jenca underscored the universal rights to life, liberty, and security, asserting that Palestinians should be able to return to their homes. He referenced an advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice from July 19, 2024, which stated that Israel, as the occupying power, must not obstruct the Palestinian people from exercising their right to self-determination, including their right to an independent and sovereign state over the entire Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Additionally, the UN official called upon the Security Council to devise plans for Gaza’s future, advocating for the establishment of political and security frameworks to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and promote early recovery and reconstruction efforts.