A diplomatic storm erupted on August 8, 2025, as Saudi Arabia denounced Israel’s newly approved plan to take over Gaza City, accusing it of “starvation, brutal practices, and ethnic cleansing” of Palestinians, intensifying international pressure on the Israeli government.

At a Glance

• Saudi Arabia issued a forceful statement condemning Israel’s Gaza City takeover plan, accusing it of ethnic cleansing and starvation
• The Israeli security cabinet approved the military operation, which requires mass evacuation and risks further humanitarian catastrophe
• Germany responded by suspending military exports to Israel, calling the plan increasingly difficult to justify
• The United Nations’ rights chief, Volker Türk, demanded an immediate halt to the operation, citing violations of international law and the right to self-determination
• Broad international condemnation followed, including from the EU, UK, Spain, Turkey, Belgium, and China, warning of escalating violence and displacement

Regional and Global Reactions

Saudi Arabia’s condemnation was unequivocal, branding the Israeli operation as an assault on Palestinian civilian life and dignity. The statement reflects deep regional alarm amid fragile relations and geopolitical tensions.

In Europe, Germany took the rare step of halting military exports to Israel—a move that underscores growing discomfort with the humanitarian consequences of the Gaza strategy. The UN echoed these concerns, urging a cessation of the operation to uphold legal norms and the pursuit of a two-state solution.

Watch now: Germany halts exports to Israel

Additional voices—including the UK, Spain, Turkey, Belgium, Australia, and China—urged Israel to reconsider, highlighting the severe risk of civilian displacement and an irreversible humanitarian downturn.

Israel’s Leadership and Internal Opposition

The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, framed the operation as essential for defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages, while planning to transfer civil control to an alternative governance structure. However, the strategy has triggered domestic opposition: military chiefs warn it could endanger hostages and escalate conflict, while public outrage and advocacy groups—particularly hostages’ families—call it a moral and strategic failure.

Sources

AP News
Reuters
Times of Israel
The Guardian
Financial Times