UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed grave concern over Israel's decision "to take control of Gaza City", his Spokesperson said in a statement on Friday.
The announcement following an Israeli cabinet meeting "marks a dangerous escalation and risks deepening the already catastrophic consequences for millions of Palestinians, and could further endanger more lives, including of the remaining hostages," it said .
The statement noted that Palestinians in Gaza continue to endure a humanitarian catastrophe of horrific proportions.
More displacement, death and destruction
The UN chief warned that this further escalation will result in additional forced displacement, killings and massive destruction, compounding the unimaginable suffering of the population.
He reiterated his urgent appeal for a permanent ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access across Gaza, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
"The Secretary-General once again strongly urges the Government of Israel to abide by its obligations under international law," the statement continued.
End the occupation
Mr. Guterres recalled that in an Advisory Opinion last July, the International Court of Justice ( ICJ ) declared that Israel is under an obligation to cease immediately all new settlement activities, to evacuate all settlers from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and to bring to an end its unlawful presence there as rapidly as possible.
"There will be no sustainable solution to this conflict without an end to this unlawful occupation and the achievement of a viable two-State solution," the statement concluded, stressing that "Gaza is and must remain an integral part of a Palestinian State."
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