Iraq condemns Israeli plan to seize full control of Gaza

BAGHDAD, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Iraq on Friday condemned Israel's plan to seize full control of Gaza City, calling it a blatant violation of international law and humanitarian principles.

In a statement, the Iraqi Foreign Ministry said it categorically rejects what it called an "escalatory plan" that continues Israel's policies of "starvation, displacement and mass killings" against civilians in Gaza.

The ministry urged the international community to "assume its legal and humanitarian responsibilities and take immediate action to halt these violations."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on Friday that Israel's Security Cabinet has approved a plan to take over Gaza City. ■