Scotland’s First Minister Condemns Israel’s Gaza City Control Plans

Scottish First Minister Humza Swinney has condemned Israel’s recent decision to take control of Gaza City, calling it “utterly unacceptable.” His remarks follow an announcement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that his security cabinet has approved plans to regain control over the entire territory, escalating tensions in a region already devastated by conflict.

In a statement on October 27, 2023, Swinney expressed concern that this move will lead to “even more human suffering for the Palestinian people and further escalate the conflict.” He urged the international community to intervene and secure a ceasefire, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation.

The ongoing conflict, ignited by Hamas’s attacks on Israel on October 7 that resulted in the deaths of about 1,200 people and left more than 250 hostages, has led to significant casualties among Palestinians. Reports indicate that tens of thousands have died, with much of Gaza destroyed and the remaining population of around two million facing famine conditions.

Prior to the security cabinet meeting that approved the new military strategy, Netanyahu indicated Israel’s intentions to regain full control of Gaza. The plan includes eventually transferring authority to friendly Arab forces opposed to Hamas. Yet, this decision has drawn skepticism, particularly from military officials. Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir reportedly cautioned that such an occupation could jeopardize the hostages and further strain the Israeli military, which has been engaged in regional conflicts for nearly two years.

Families of the hostages have voiced their opposition to the proposed escalation, fearing it could jeopardize their loved ones’ safety. Some gathered to protest outside the security cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, underscoring the emotional toll the conflict has taken on those with family members in captivity.

In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu asserted Israel’s intention to take control of all of Gaza to ensure national security and eliminate Hamas. He stated, “We intend to… remove Hamas there, enable the population to be free of Gaza.” He clarified that Israel does not aim to occupy Gaza permanently but seeks to establish a security perimeter and transfer governance to capable Arab forces.

The Israeli military has conducted extensive bombardments and ground operations in Gaza City, which remains one of the few areas not designated as a buffer zone or under evacuation orders. A large-scale ground operation could displace thousands more people and complicate humanitarian efforts to deliver essential aid.

Current estimates of Gaza City’s population remain uncertain. Hundreds of thousands fled during the initial phases of the conflict, but many returned during intermittent ceasefires earlier this year. As it stands, Israel controls approximately three-quarters of the territory, with the humanitarian crisis worsening by the day.

The international community is now faced with pressing questions regarding its response to this latest escalation. As the situation develops, the call for a ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts grows louder, aiming to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.