The United Nations described reports on Tuesday of a possible Israeli decision to expand military operations across the Gaza Strip as "extremely worrying," if true.
Miroslav Jenča, UN Assistant Secretary-General, said during a Security Council meeting on the situation in Gaza that such a move would have disastrous consequences and could further endanger the lives of the remaining hostages in Gaza.
He added, "International law is clear on this matter. Gaza is an integral part of the future Palestinian state and must remain so."