An emergency session of the United Nations Security Council on 10 August was dominated by sharp criticism of Israel’s decision to widen its military offensive in the Gaza Strip. France’s deputy permanent representative condemned the planned occupation "in the strongest terms," urged Israel to reopen border crossings, allow unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, and backed an immediate cease-fire coupled with the release of hostages. Paris also called on UN members to endorse a two-state solution and formally recognise a Palestinian state. Britain’s deputy envoy James Kariuki echoed the rebuke, saying the expansion "will not bring back the hostages" and demanded that Israel lift all restrictions on aid. Earlier in the day, Russia’s Foreign Ministry warned that the operation risked turning Gaza’s already dire situation into a full-scale humanitarian catastrophe, likewise pressing for an unconditional cease-fire and the freeing of captives. The Security Council statements came a day after the foreign ministers of Australia, Germany, Italy, New Zealand and the United Kingdom issued a joint communiqué rejecting Israel’s plan for a large-scale ground assault to seize Gaza City. The ministers said the move could breach international humanitarian law, worsen famine conditions and endanger both civilians and hostages. Israel’s security cabinet approved the expanded offensive last week, saying it seeks to dismantle Hamas, secure hostage releases and establish new civilian administration in the enclave. While the United States reiterated that Hamas must disarm and release all captives, the latest chorus of objections underscores Israel’s growing diplomatic isolation over its Gaza strategy.