United Nations, United States say Gaza ‘uninhabitable’ due to bombs

LONDON (Reuters) - The UN's Human Rights Chief Volker Turk has called for an immediate halt to Israel's military takeover plan in Gaza, warning it will lead to increased deaths and suffering, contradicting the International Court of Justice's ruling on occupation. Turk urged Israel to prioritize humanitarian aid and the unconditional release of hostages instead of escalating the conflict. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel's Security Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, preparing the IDF for military operations while providing humanitarian aid. The Cabinet established five key principles for concluding the conflict, including dismantling Hamas, securing hostages, and setting up a civilian government, with operations expected to last at least six months. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel's military plans to take control of Gaza City as part of a strategy approved by Prime Minister Netanyahu's security cabinet, aiming to defeat Hamas while providing humanitarian aid. Amid international pressure for a truce and the release of hostages, Netanyahu clarified Israel's intention to establish a security perimeter without governing Gaza, despite growing concerns about escalating violence and humanitarian crises. Want More Context? 🔎

A group of 600 retired Israeli security officials, including former intelligence heads, urged US President Trump to pressure Israel to end the Gaza war, asserting Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat. Their appeal follows reports of escalating violence and humanitarian crises in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need to return hostages and alleviate suffering among Palestinians. Want More Context? 🔎

Australia has urged Israel not to take military control of Gaza, warning that it would worsen the humanitarian crisis, as stated by Foreign Minister Penny Wong. While calling for a ceasefire and aid access, Wong reiterated that a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace, amidst Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's plans to govern Gaza with unspecified Arab forces. Want More Context? 🔎

The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, has not received an invitation to upcoming peace talks in Doha regarding the conflict in eastern Congo, jeopardizing efforts to end violence that has resulted in thousands of deaths and mass displacements. While both sides aim to negotiate a peace deal, delays in prisoner releases and respect for prior agreements have hindered progress, causing uncertainty about participation in the talks. Want More Context? 🔎