A coalition of 23 countries, along with the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, issued a joint statement Saturday condemning Israel’s plan to impose full military control over Gaza, calling it a “dangerous and unacceptable escalation.”

Why it matters:

The statement marks a unified stance from a broad bloc of Arab and Islamic nations, warning that Israel’s actions could amount to crimes against humanity and further destabilize efforts toward peace in the region.

The big picture:

The condemnation follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement Friday that the Security Cabinet approved a plan to take over Gaza City.

The Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit on Gaza formed the ministerial committee behind the statement.

What they’re saying:

The bloc described Israel’s move as: A “flagrant violation of international law”,  an attempt to “entrench the illegal occupation” and a continuation of “grave violations,” including killings, starvation, and forced displacement.

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