PH expresses deep concern over Israel plan for full military takeover of Gaza

The Philippines on Monday criticized Israel's plan to seize control of Gaza, its massive armed offensives affecting civilians, and efforts to block humanitarian aid, warning such moves are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the strip.

Echoing the calls and sentiments of a growing number of countries on Israel's actions, the Philippines said it joins the international community "in its urgent call for an end to the ever-worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza".

The Philippines, in its strongest rebuke so far against Israel, said it was "deeply concerned by recent developments, including the Israeli government’s planned full military takeover of Gaza, the continuing restrictions on access to life-saving humanitarian aid such as food and water, large-scale displacement, attacks affecting civilians, and reports of settlement expansion in the West Bank."

These developments, according to a Department of Foreign Affairs statement, "aggravate an already dire humanitarian situation and further diminish prospects for a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the Middle East."

"The Philippines, therefore, strongly calls on Israel to heed the ceasefire proposal as a crucial step to protect civilians and revive the path to peace," the DFA said.

The embassy of Israel has declined to comment, but referred to its previous statement on the matter.

"Israel remains firmly committed to ensuring that humanitarian assistance reaches civilians in Gaza," according to its previous statement, adding over 100,000 aid trucks carrying nearly 2 million tons of supplies have entered the strip."

At least 2 million of Gaza's residents have been displaced and brought to the brink of famine with the continuing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

The armed hostilities began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages. Around 50 hostages are still being held.

Reports said Israel’s massive military offensive resulted in the deaths of over 60,000 Palestinians, including women and children. –NB/RSJ, GMA Integrated News