The Israeli military announced the start of its offensive on Gaza City, claiming control over its outskirts and 75 percent of the territory since March.

This came after the Israeli Defense Minister approved the plan to seize the city.

French President Emmanuel Macron warned the assault could become a “real catastrophe.”

At the same time, Israel approved a settlement project to build 3,400 housing units in the E1 area, effectively splitting the West Bank into northern and southern halves and undermining prospects for a Palestinian state.