UN calls reports about possible expansion of Israeli Gaza operations 'deeply alarming'

The United Nations on Tuesday called reports about a possible decision to expand Israel's military operations throughout the Gaza Strip "deeply alarming" if true.

U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca told a U.N. Security Council meeting on the situation in Gaza that such a move "would risk catastrophic consequences ... and could further endanger the lives of the remaining hostages in Gaza.

"International law is clear in the regard, Gaza is and must remain an integral part of the future Palestinian state," he added.