Foreign ministers of Australia, Germany, Italy, New Zealand and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on 9 August condemning Israel’s decision to launch a large-scale ground operation aimed at taking control of Gaza City. The five governments warned that the planned offensive risks violating international humanitarian law, worsening an already catastrophic humanitarian situation and endangering both Palestinian civilians and the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Speaking at a United Nations Security Council session the following day, the UK’s deputy permanent representative, James Kariuki, reinforced the joint message, calling Israel’s move “wrong” and saying further military action would not secure the release of captives. France’s deputy envoy, Jay Dharmadhikari, also urged Israel to abandon any occupation plans, open border crossings and allow unrestricted delivery of humanitarian assistance, while encouraging member states to back a two-state solution and recognise a Palestinian state. Both London and Paris stressed that Israel must immediately lift all restrictions on aid entering Gaza. The diplomatic pressure, including Germany’s parallel suspension of selected arms deliveries reported by domestic media, highlights the growing international rift with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government over the 22-month war and its future governance of the enclave.