UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis expressed concern Monday over an Israeli incursion into the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.

“Deeply concerned about Israel’s imminent incursion targeting the eastern part of Rafah, a city where over 1 million displaced Palestinians are sheltering and already in the most dire conditions.

“Let’s be clear — such an inconsiderate operation simply means more humanitarian catastrophe, and nothing can justify it,” Francis said in a statement.

Earlier on Monday, Israeli forces issued evacuation orders for Palestinians in the eastern neighborhoods of Rafah, a move widely viewed as a prelude to Israel’s long-awaited attack on the city, which is home to some 1.5 million Palestinians seeking refuge from the war following an attack on Oct. 7 by the Palestinian group Hamas that killed 1,200 people.

“This is a critical moment to take decisive steps towards a permanent cease-fire, accompanied by the unconditional release of all hostages, to bring an end to this suffering,” Francis added.