UN: Israel's plan to take over Gaza must be stopped immediately

(Patria) - The Israeli government's plan for military control of Gaza will cause even more death and suffering and must be stopped immediately, said UN human rights chief Volker Türk.

The plan contradicts the International Court of Justice's ruling that Israel must end its occupation as soon as possible to achieve a two-state solution and realize the Palestinian right to self-determination, Türk's statement reads.

Israel's security cabinet approved early this morning a plan to take control of Gaza City as the state expands its military operations despite growing domestic and international criticism over the devastating, nearly two-year-long war.

"Based on everything we have seen so far, further escalation will result in more forced displacement, more killings, more suffering, senseless destruction and crimes," Türk warned.

"Instead of intensifying the war, the Israeli government should do everything to save civilian lives in Gaza by allowing humanitarian aid to enter. Palestinian armed groups should immediately and unconditionally release the hostages," he added.