The Israeli defence minister has pushed back at countries that "condemn and threaten sanctions" over Israel’s plan to seize control of the Gaza strip.
In a post on X, Israel Katz said international condemnation would not "weaken our resolve" in its pursuit to defeat Hamas.
The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Saturday in Panama after a request was made to the 15-member council by the UK, Denmark, France, Greece and Slovenia. It was supported by Algeria, Russia, China, Somalia, Guyana, Pakistan, South Korea and Sierra Leone.
The United States, Israel’s closest ally, did not support the request.
Earlier on Friday, chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany would suspend arms exports to Israel that could be used in Gaza “until further notice,” after Israel approved plans to take over Gaza City.
The move by Germany, one of Israel’s largest arms suppliers, comes as a surprise, as it has previously avoided the tougher stance taken by some European Union allies.
It is likely to further isolate Israel following its plan to seize Gaza City, which has been condemned by the United Nations, aid and human rights groups, and supporters of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.
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