Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for the Secretary-General of the United Nations, stated that the consequences of the Israeli ground operation in Rafah would be disastrous for the residents of Gaza, and the United Nations hopes that it can be avoided.

Dujarric said, “These reports are very disturbing. The consequences of the ground operation in Rafah in the current circumstances will be disastrous for the people of Gaza, the humanitarian situation, and everyone around us.”

The spokesman for the United Nations Secretary-General added: “We truly hope that this will be avoided, and as far as we know, negotiations are continuing and we hope that the two parties will be able to agree on a ceasefire.”

On Friday, the Israeli military-political cabinet approved the plan for the operation in Rafah, which has become the main center for refugees from the rest of the Palestinian Strip.