A spokeswoman for the United Nations on Friday described Israel's decision to capture Gaza City as "deeply alarming. " "It is clear that this would risk catastrophic consequences for millions of Palestinians and further endanger the lives of the remaining hostages in Gaza,

The Israeli prime minister's announcement of plans to take control of Gaza City has been met with concern in Israel, particularly by families of hostages still being held by Hamas. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum: Bring Them Home Now has said the plan "means abandoning hostages".

Ahead of a security cabinet meeting that is expected to sign off on plans for a new large-scale offensive against Hamas, the families of hostages remaining in captivity are ramping up their protests,