During an emergency UN Security Council meeting, Russia’s Deputy UN Envoy Dmitry Polyansky strongly denounced Israel’s plan to take over Gaza City, arguing that it reflects a blatant disregard for international law and a failure to learn from the Holocaust. Polyansky emphasized that the move could exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and undermine any hope for a two-state solution.
The Netanyahu government’s decision to approve the operation, described as part of a broader strategy to ‘conclude the war’ with Hamas, has faced strong criticism. Despite warnings from military officials about the potential risks to hostages and the humanitarian impact, the cabinet proceeded with the plan. The operation’s stated objectives include disarming Hamas, ensuring the safe return of all hostages, and demilitarizing Gaza. Netanyahu has proposed that eventually, the territory would be handed over to unspecified ‘Arab forces’ for governance.
The international community has largely condemned the move, with numerous Western nations expressing their disapproval. Israel itself has seen widespread anti-war protests, indicating a deep divide within the country on this issue. Over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s military campaign against Hamas, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing crisis.
Polyansky accused Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar of hypocrisy, claiming that he had publicly expressed sorrow for the captives while being fully aware of the cabinet’s preparations for the military operation. According to Polyansky, this decision effectively doomed any chance of bringing the hostages home alive. He also highlighted the stark contradiction of the Jewish people, who endured the Holocaust, placing Palestinians in ‘ghettos’ and seeking their complete destruction, suggesting that the lessons of history can be quickly forgotten.