UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Saturday to discuss Israel's plan to take over Gaza City.

The meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. (1900 GMT) Saturday, according to the program of work of the council.

The meeting was requested after Israel on Friday announced a plan to take over Gaza City.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the Israeli decision is a dangerous escalation.

"The secretary-general is gravely alarmed by the decision of the Israeli government to 'take control of Gaza City.' This decision marks a dangerous escalation and risks deepening the already catastrophic consequences for millions of Palestinians, and could further endanger more lives, including (those) of the remaining hostages," said a statement issued by Stephanie Tremblay, associate spokesperson for the UN chief. ■