Germany, a key European ally, announced it would halt exports of military equipment to Israel that could be used in Gaza, a decision Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called disappointing.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday criticized Israel’s plan with the UN chief's spokesperson saying the decision marked "a dangerous escalation" that will result in forced displacement of Palestinians.

United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Turk said on Friday the plan runs contrary to the ruling of the International Court of Justice.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday said Israel's decision to take control of Gaza City was wrong and urged the Israeli government to reconsider. "This action will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict or to help secure the release of the hostages. It will only bring more bloodshed," he said. 

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said in a statement on Friday that "Australia calls on Israel to not go down this path, which will only worsen the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.” Wong said permanent forced displacement was a violation of international law.

“A two-state solution is the only pathway to secure an enduring peace – a Palestinian state and the State of Israel, living side-by-side in peace and security within internationally-recognized borders,” she added.