Washington: Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen on Friday called on Israel to 'immediately reverse' its decision to occupy Gaza, warning that the move would only worsen the suffering of civilians in the blockaded enclave. The Israeli government's decision to "intensify the military operation in Gaza is wrong," Rasmussen said, according to a statement from the Danish Foreign Ministry, Danish daily Berlingske reported.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rasmussen stated that the occupation will exacerbate the suffering of the civilian population and urged Israel to reconsider its decision. He emphasized the necessity for a ceasefire, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access, the release of Israeli hostages, and a lasting peace through a two-state solution.

Rasmussen highlighted that potential measures to increase pressure on Israel will be a priority at the upcoming meeting of EU foreign ministers in Copenhagen later in August. This statement was released shortly after Israel's Security Cabinet approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal to occupy Gaza City.

Israel is currently under intense scrutiny for its military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in over 61,200 fatalities since October 2023. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted the enclave, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis.

Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in the region.