Five nations condemn Israeli plans for new Gaza offensive,urge immediate ceasefire
In a rare joint move, the foreign ministers of Australia, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom have issued a sharp rebuke of Israel’s decision to launch a new large-scale military operation in Gaza, warning it will deepen an already “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis.
The statement, released on Friday, rejected the Israeli Security Cabinet’s 8 August decision to expand military action, saying it would endanger hostages, risk mass civilian displacement, and potentially violate international humanitarian law. The ministers also condemned any attempts at annexation or settlement expansion, calling them violations of international law.
“We urge the parties and the international community to make all efforts to finally bring this terrible conflict to an end now, through an immediate and permanent ceasefire,” the joint statement read. The ministers stressed the urgent need for “massive, immediate and unimpeded” humanitarian aid, warning that Gaza is on the brink of famine.
The five governments called for Hamas to release all hostages immediately and without conditions, and to ensure they are treated humanely. They also urged Israel to revise its newly introduced registration system for international aid organisations, which they say is obstructing vital humanitarian work. “Their exclusion would be an egregious signal,” the ministers warned.
Looking beyond the current fighting, the statement reaffirmed the countries’ united support for a negotiated two-state solution as the only path to lasting peace. Such a resolution, they argued, would require the “total demilitarisation of Hamas” and its exclusion from any governance role in Gaza, with the Palestinian Authority taking a central role in the territory’s administration.
The joint condemnation underscores growing international pressure on Israel to halt its military campaign, as humanitarian agencies continue to report worsening conditions for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.