Protesters gather in a demonstration organised by the families of Israeli captives calling for action to secure their release outside the Defence Ministry headquarters in Tel Aviv. AFP
The protests followed Israel’s security cabinet approval early Friday of plans to take control of Gaza City, sparking international outrage.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting domestic pressure to agree to a ceasefire to secure the release of captives held by resistance group Hamas. International criticism is also growing as more than two million Palestinians endure famine under Israel’s five-month blockade of the Strip.
Despite the backlash and rumours of dissent from Israeli army top brass, Netanyahu has remained defiant over the decision, and has claimed Israel does not intend to occupy the Palestinian territory.
Hamas has slammed the Israeli plan to occupy Gaza City, calling it a "new war crime".
Since October 2023, Israel has killed more than 61,300 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and wounded over 152,000, according to the health ministry. An Israeli blockade imposed since 2 March has exacerbated conditions in the Strip, prompting warnings of widespread famine.
Independent estimates suggest the actual death toll may be significantly higher.
*This story was edited by Ahram Online.
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