The Namibian government has expressed deep concern over Israel’s plan to take control of Gaza City.

The plan was recently approved by the Israeli Cabinet, as announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The plan has since drawn wide criticism from the international community.

The Namibian government, through the Ministry of International Relations, says Israel’s decision stands to significantly worsen the already dire humanitarian crisis, marked by hunger, deprivation, and the risk of forced starvation.

“Drawing on our own history of overcoming illegal occupation and apartheid, Namibia fully understands the cost of oppression and hopes and dreams of freedom,” said Ambassador Penda Naanda, Executive Director at Namibia's International Relations Ministry.

Namibia further calls on countries to uphold their international obligations and not stand idle while “a humanitarian catastrophe of potentially monumental proportions unfolds.”

“Guided by the principles enshrined in our Constitution, Namibia continues to advocate for the peaceful resolution of international disputes and remains firmly committed to supporting initiatives that promote and protect the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.”

The government says it would support any initiative to address the crisis in the best interest of both the Israelis and Palestinians, further reaffirming support for peace and dialogue in line with UNGA and Security Council resolutions.